florence travel guides

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Cradle of the Renaissance, romantic, enchanting and utterly irresistible, Florence (Firenze) is a place to feast on world-class art and gourmet Tuscan cuisine.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Museo di San Marco

San Lorenzo & San Marco

At the heart of Florence's university area sits Chiesa di San Marco and an adjoining 15th-century Dominican monastery where both gifted painter Fra'…

Galleria dell'Accademia

A queue marks the door to this gallery, built to house one of the Renaissance's most iconic masterpieces, Michelangelo's David. But the world's most…

Museo delle Cappelle Medicee

Nowhere is Medici conceit expressed so explicitly as in the Medici Chapels. Adorned with granite, marble, semiprecious stones and some of Michelangelo's…

Basilica di Santa Croce

Santa Croce

The austere interior of this Franciscan basilica is a shock after the magnificent neo-Gothic facade enlivened by varying shades of coloured marble. Most…

Palazzo Pitti

Boboli & San Miniato al Monte

Commissioned by banker Luca Pitti in 1458, this Renaissance palace was later bought by the Medici family. Over the centuries, it was a residence of the…

Museo del Bargello

It was behind the stark walls of Palazzo del Bargello, Florence's earliest public building, that the podestà (governing magistrate) meted out justice from…

Museo degli Innocenti

Shortly after its founding in 1421, Brunelleschi designed the loggia for Florence's Ospedale degli Innocenti, a foundling hospital and Europe's first…

Cappella Brancacci

Fire in the 18th century practically destroyed 13th-century Basilica di Santa Maria del Carmine, but it spared its magnificent chapel frescoes – a…

Top picks from our travel experts

The best things to do to really experience florence.

Giardino Torrigiani

Astonishing. Behind the unassuming facades of Via de' Serragli lies a vast, secret garden – Europe’s largest privately owned green space...

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Considered one of Florence's most harmonious examples of Renaissance architecture, this unfinished basilica was the Medici parish church and mausoleum. It…

All'Antico Vinaio

The crowd spills out the door of this noisy Florentine thoroughbred, pride and joy of the Mazzanti family since 1991. Push your way to the tables at the…

Museo di Storia Naturale – Zoologia La Specola

One of several sections of Florence's natural history museum dating from 1775, La Specola showcases 5000-odd animals (out of an unbelievable depository of…

Villa e Giardino Bardini

This 17th-century villa and garden was named after 19th-century antiquarian art collector Stefano Bardini (1836–1922), who bought it in 1913 and restored…

Palazzo Medici-Riccardi

Cosimo the Elder entrusted Michelozzo with the design of the family's town house in 1444. The result was this palace, a blueprint that influenced the…

Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio

Indoor and outdoor food market with an intimate, local flavour.

Basilica di Santo Spirito

The facade of this Brunelleschi church, smart on Florence's most shabby-chic piazza, makes a striking backdrop to open-air concerts in summer. Inside, the…

Fondazione Casa Buonarroti

Though Michelangelo never lived in Casa Buonarroti, his heirs devoted some of the artist’s hard-earned wealth to the construction of this 17th-century…

Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana

Beyond the Basilica di San Lorenzo ticket office lie peaceful cloisters framing a garden with orange trees. Stairs lead up the loggia to the Biblioteca…

Giardino di Boboli

Behind Palazzo Pitti, the fountain- and sculpture-adorned Boboli Gardens – slowly but surely being restored to their former pristine glory thanks to a €2…

Should you notice something gone awry with street signs in Oltrarno – on a No Entry sign, a tiny black figure stealthily sneaking away with the white bar…

Mercato Centrale

Wander the maze of stalls crammed with fresh produce at Florence's oldest and largest food market, on the ground floor of an iron-and-glass structure…

17 free things to do in Florence

Ponte Santa Trinità

Composed of three elliptical arches of the utmost elegance – the first of their kind ever used in bridge construction – Ponte Santa Trinità was designed…

Piazzale Michelangelo

Turn your back on the bevy of ticky-tacky souvenir stalls flogging David statues and boxer shorts and take in the spectacular city panorama from this vast…

Cenacolo di Sant’Apollonia

Once part of a sprawling Benedictine monastery, this cenacolo (refectory) harbours arguably the city’s most remarkable Last Supper scene. Painted by…

Museo Archeologico

Set a little bit back off Piazza della Santissima Annunziata is Florence's archaeology museum. Its rich collection of finds, including most of the Medici…

Torre San Niccolò

Built in 1324, the best preserved of the city’s medieval gates stands sentinel on the banks of the Arno. In summer, with a guide you can scale the steep…

Ponte Vecchio

Dating from 1345, iconic Ponte Vecchio was the only Florentine bridge to survive destruction at the hands of retreating German forces in 1944. Above…

Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata

Established in 1250 by the founders of the Servite order and rebuilt by Michelozzo and others in the mid-15th century, this Renaissance church is most…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Careful advance planning is the key to getting the most out of your visit to the Tuscan capital. Here’s all you need to know before your trip to Florence.

Best Neighborhoods

Whether you want to be in the heart of the city, close to good bars and food, or quieter districts, we share the best neighborhoods to stay in in Florence.

Florence is a captivating city, but if you can tear yourself away, there are many great day trips to the wider region and beyond.

Money and Costs

These budget travel tips can help your euros go further in Florence.

Transportation

Here are our top tips for finding your way around in Florence.

Free Things to Do

Visiting the opulent, art-filled capital of Tuscany doesn't have to cost a fortune. Here are 17 treasures in Florence that you can visit for free.

From the Romanelli family's studio to the contemporary designs of Bottega Pendolare, Florence balances its rich history with vibrant, contemporary design.

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Florence and beyond.

Florence Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 24, 2024

Florence is one of the most famous cities in Italy and a hotspot on the country’s tourist trail. Few people miss it, especially if they are visiting Italy for the first time.

With stunning Renaissance architecture, winding streets, and picturesque white buildings capped with red roofs, Florence is one of my favorite spots in Italy.

If you love art, the number of galleries here will keep you busy for weeks. There are also beautiful Renaissance churches to be explored and you could easily spend hours on foot wandering the manicured pathways at the Boboli Gardens.

The city is also a great jumping-off point for Tuscan winery and food tours. Moreover, Florence is a popular study abroad location so the city also boasts incredible nightlife.

This Florence travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this classic Italian city.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Florence

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Florence

1. Spend a day in the Galleria de Uffizi

The Uffizi holds the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art (including the The Birth of Venus and La Primavera by Botticelli, Bacchus by Caravaggio, and Doni Tondo by Michelangelo). Towards the end of the gallery, there’s also some portraits and Dutch landscape works that are beautiful too. It’s a must-see museum. Be sure to buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines. If you go later in the day, there are fewer crowds. Tickets start at 23 EUR (plus a 4 EUR online booking fee).

2. Climb Il Duomo

One of Florence’s most popular sites is the Duomo (the cathedral). This huge Gothic building was started in 1296 and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers Florence’s historic center. Filippo Brunelleschi, known as the father of Renaissance architecture, engineered the famous dome, which is still the largest brick dome ever constructed. The real highlight is the view from the top where you get a panoramic look at Florence and its iconic red roofs. It’s absolutely beautiful. You’ll need to reserve a time in advance if you want to go on the roof. The cathedral itself is free to visit, but if you want to visit anything else in the complex (such as the dome, bell tower, or museum), you’ll need to purchase one of three passes, with prices ranging from 15-30 EUR. You can also get a skip-the-line ticket with exclusive access .

3. Walk along Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge built in 1345 as the city’s first bridge across the Arno River. Today, it’s the only surviving historic bridge in Florence, as all the others were destroyed in World War II. The bridge is lined with shops selling gold and silver jewelry. The shops are all small and close together. The red-tiled roofs and yellow stucco mixed with old stonework gives the whole bridge a very medieval feel. It’s closed to vehicular traffic, making it a fun place to stroll around and window shop.

4. See David

Housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia, Michelangelo’s 16th-century David is one of the most impressive sculptures in the world. At 5.17 meters (17 feet) tall, it’s a lot bigger and more detailed than you think it would be. I was completely blown away by it. It truly is a masterful piece of art that is a must-see. Try to go early to avoid the lines. Admission is 16 EUR and skip-the-line tickets (with a guide) cost 77 EUR.

5. Wander the Giardino di Boboli

Commonly known as the Boboli Gardens, the Medicis (an Italian banking family and powerful dynasty; four popes were Medici family members) designed the landscape and architecture here in the Tuscan Renaissance style that later influenced aristocratic and royal gardens throughout Europe. The gardens are absolutely gorgeous, with ancient marble statues and large fountains everywhere, and the scent from the citrus trees completely flooding your senses. It costs 10 EUR to visit (there’s also a combined ticket for the gardens and Pitti Palace for 22 EUR).

Other Things to See and Do in Florence

1. take a walking tour.

Walking tours are a wonderful way to learn about Florence and there are a handful of excellent free tours in the city. They cover all the highlights and are the perfect introduction to the city. It only lasts a few hours. Florence Free Walking Tours runs daily free tours in English. Just be sure to tip!

If you’re looking for a high-quality and detailed tour focusing on the city’s art or history, try Walks of Italy . They’re my favorite walking tour company because their tours offer behind-the-scenes access and are led by informative guides. Tours start at 77 EUR.

2. Visit the baptistery

Consecrated in 1059, the baptistery of John the Baptist is one of Florence’s oldest buildings. The octagonal baptistery that you see today was rebuilt from an earlier building dating back to the 4th-5th century CE. It was here where famous Renaissance figures, including poet Dante Alighieri and members of the Medici family, were baptized. Standout features include the three sets of huge bronze doors and the interior of the dome, which is covered in golden mosaics. Admission is part of one of the Duomo passes, which range from 15-30 EUR depending on which group of monuments you want to see.

3. Visit the Piazzale Michelangelo

Head to the Piazzale Michelangelo on the south side of the Arno River for a great cityscape view. It’s one of my favorite viewpoints in the entire city! You can see the red-tiled dome of the Duomo and the towers rising over the city. It requires a good hike up a hill but it’s worth it and it’s a great way to see the stunning view of the city without paying to climb the Duomo. Florentine architect Giuseppe Poggi designed the space in 1869 specifically to showcase Michaelangelo’s works. There’s a bronze cast of David here, along with bronze casts of some of the artist’s other works. If you aren’t able to or can’t walk up the hill, you can take city buses 12 or 13 to reach the top.

4. Lounge in Liberia Café la Cité

This is a combination bookstore, café, and cultural center. It’s a great spot for some in-depth conversation with locals and a prime atmosphere for getting some work done. They host a lot of weekly events too, such as readings and writing workshops. It’s open late (until midnight most days), when the atmosphere changes into a trendy, book-filled bar with great cocktails. It’s really cool and something more unique to experience than just more museums and old buildings.

5. Admire Palazzo Pitti

Palazzo Pitti was built in 1457 for the Pitti family and was later sold to the Medici family in 1549. As major patrons of the arts, this palace serves as a beautiful ode to the Medici family’s contribution to the cultural advancement of Florence. The exterior is impressive with the decorative arches and stonework columns on the façade. You really get a sense of how impressive this building was during the time period. It hosts an impressive collection of paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, including works by Filippo Lippi and Botticelli. Admission is 16 EUR (combined admission for Pitti and the Boboli Gardens is 22 EUR).

6. Explore the National Museum of Bargello

The museum, which originally dates to the 13th century, is home to original works by Bandinelli, Donatello, Antonio Rossellino, and other Renaissance masters. It has the largest Italian collection of Renaissance and Gothic sculptures in the country and is just a short walk from the Piazza della Signoria. The exterior is all traditional stonework with delicate arches and a 54-foot clock tower. The crenelated tops give it that medieval feel. The interior courtyard is made from the same red stone and tall archways let in all the natural light. Admission to the museum is 11 EUR. There’s a 4 EUR online booking fee if you book in advance.

7. Visit the Sant’Ambrogio Market

Sant’Ambrogio is one of the oldest districts in the city, and in fact is the oldest market in Florence, having been around since 1873. Although it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo, the market here is completely off the radar. Most tourist just don’t go to it – which is why I like it. It’s not as famous as the Central Market and its atmosphere is much more laidback. While you’re here, try some traditional foods like lampredotto (made from cow’s stomach), cured meats like finocchiona (fennel salami), pecorino sheep’s cheese, and local wines. You’ll also find some excellent Tuscan food at the Trattoria Da Rocco restaurant. The market is open 7am-2pm from Monday-Saturday.

8. Hang out in Piazza Santo Spirito

Piazza Santo Spirito is a public square located in the quiet district of the Oltrarno. In the mornings, the place is bustling with market stalls. Once the sun goes down, locals flock to the bars and restaurants. There’s a nice church to admire at the center of it all as well. It’s a real local place to just hang out and chill with some gelato and people watch.

9. Visit the Stibbert Museum

This is one of Florence’s most interesting and unique museums, though it doesn’t get the same attention as the city’s other museums since it’s tucked away on the outskirts of town. This is the private collection of Frederick Stibbert, who also donated his villa and gardens to the city. There’s some fascinating stuff amongst the collection of 36,000 artifacts, including historic armor from the Middle East and a completely reconstructed army of medieval knights sitting on their horses in the great hall. The main attraction: Napoleon Bonaparte’s cloak from when he was coronated. Admission is 10 EUR.

10. SUP on the Arno River

If you want a unique way to see the Arno River, head out for a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) session with Toscana SUP. You’ll paddle your way underneath the Ponte Vecchio and then take a break for a glass of Chianti (you’re in Italy, after all!). Tours start from 70 EUR per person for two people and last two hours. If you have a group of three or more, it’s 65 EUR per person. If you want to go solo, it’s 100 EUR.

11. Check out the Biblioteca delle Oblate

This public library is housed in the former Convent of the Oblate and is a popular study spot for students. It’s an important cultural center too, with an entire section dedicated to local history on the first floor. There’s a lovely courtyard with a towering tree and green shrubs dotted around. There are benches so you can sit in the shade on a nice day. When you’re done browsing, go to the rooftop terrace for a coffee at the Caffetteria delle Oblate. There’s a great view of the Duomo from here and it’s never crowded with tourists.

12. Admire Santa Croce

Santa Croce is the largest Franciscan church in Italy and holds the tomb of Michelangelo (there are also funerary monuments to Dante and Leonardo da Vinci here too). The exterior is covered in green and white marble, along with decorative arches and mosaics around the entrance. The interior is stunning with stained glass windows, massive columns, and high ceilings. Surrounding the altar is a rich display of frescos and other impressive artistic pieces. It’s an interesting place to explore if you have already covered the highlights and have extra time in town. There are usually rotating exhibitions here as well. Admission is 8 EUR. Note: The Bardi Chapel is currently under restoration and not open to visitors.

13. Take a vineyard tour

Florence is surrounded by vineyards, many of which can be accessed via day tours. Most tours visit a couple of vineyards and include some samples. Expect to pay at least 50 EUR per person for a half-day trip. If you have your own vehicle, you can arrange your own tour (but you won’t be able to drink). Many vineyards also operate B&Bs or Airbnbs, which makes for a nice getaway if you want to splash out for a night. You can’t come to Tuscany without seeing the vineyards so make this a priority. There are a number of great tours like this one from that will take you through medieval villages and let you experience the wine country for yourself. For 90 EUR, it’s well worth it. If you don’t have a whole day to spend on visiting the wineries, there are options in the city that combine tasting local wines with walking through the gorgeous streets of Florence.

14. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Florence’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Florence has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, these tours is for you! Tours from 80 EUR.

Florence Travel Costs

Hostel prices – In peak season, a bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds start at 50-60 EUR per night, while a bed in a dorm with 8-10 beds start around 50 27-40 EUR. Private rooms cost 125-185 EUR per night during peak season.

In off-peak season, 4-6-bed dorms start around 38 EUR while 8-10-bed dorms start at 35 EUR. Prices for private rooms don’t change much in off-peak season.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and a couple of hostels also have self-catering facilities and offer free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – The majority of hotels are located within a short walking distance of the city’s main attractions. Many hotels in Europe do not have elevators, so plan on climbing stairs if you’re not staying on the main floor. During peak season, budget two-star hotels start at 110 EUR per night for a single room. Double rooms start around 170 EUR. During off-peak season, single rooms start around 90 EUR and double rooms are around 140 EUR. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are usually included.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for as little as 55-80 EUR per night (though prices are usually double that). You can rent entire homes (usually studio apartments) for closer to 100-125 EUR per night if you book early.

Average cost of food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, and olives and olive oil form the backbone of most meals, with meat and fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu. In Florence, popular dishes include bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), lampredotto (tripe sandwich), tagliatelle funghi porcini e tartufo (pasta with mushrooms and truffles), and of course gelato.

While eating out in the city is expensive, the good thing about Italy is that you can get pizza and pasta for reasonable prices. For breakfast, there are plenty of cafes around the city where you can get coffee and pastries for less than 10 EUR. If you want something heartier, plan on spending 10-15 EUR. You can find a filling meal at a casual Italian restaurant for 15 EUR. You can get a small personal pizza for about 10 EUR or less.

A mid-range meal with drinks and an appetizer costs around 40 EUR per person at higher end place (think white tablecloths and fancier décor).

You can find cheap sandwich shops all over the city for 5-7 EUR. A fast-food combo (think McDonald’s) costs around 10 EUR. Chinese takeout is around 6-10 EUR for a noodle or rice dish while a meal at a Thai restaurant is around 11-16 EUR. Both are popular cheap eats in the city.

Beer is around 5-6 EUR while a latte/cappuccino costs 1.50 EUR. Bottled water is around 1.50 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 45-55 EUR. This gets you basic staples like pasta, seasonal produce, rice, and some meat.

Backpacking Florence Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Florence, my suggested budget is 85 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying the parks and plazas. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 150 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the museums and doing a vineyard tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 320 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Florence Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Florence is one of the most expensive cities in Italy. A visit here can really set you back, mainly due to all the museum tickets you’ll buy (as well as all the delicious food you’ll eat). Fortunately, there are some ways to save money in Florence. Here are my top tips for cutting your expenses:

• Eat cheap – Eating near Piazza della Signoria or in the square can be very expensive. If you move further away from the busy tourist hubs, you’ll find cheaper places to eat.
• Travel on foot – Public transportation in Florence isn’t quite as necessary as in other European cities because most attractions are within walking distance. Skip the bus and walk if you can. You’ll save a few euros.
• Get the Firenze Card – If you are going to do lots of sightseeing, this card provides free entry to the top museums, tours, and attractions. It costs 85 EUR and is good for three days. Just make sure you add up the cost of the attractions you want to see to make sure the pass is cheaper.
• Get a Duomo Pass – If you don’t want to get a Firenze Card but still want to visit the monuments of Piazza del Duomo, you’ll want to get one of the three passes: Brunelleschi, Giotto, or Ghiberti. These range in price from 15-30 EUR depending on which monuments you want to see and are valid for 3 days.
• Get the Uffizi Passport With the Uffizi Passport you get one admission to the Uffizi, Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens, and the National Archeological Museum over a five-day period. The pass is 38 EUR which saves more than 10 EUR over paying for each entrance separately.
• Redeem hotel points – Make sure you sign up for hotel credit cards so you can use those points when you travel. Most cards come with at least 1-2 nights free via their welcome bonuses. This can save you a lot of money on your trip. Here’s an article to help you get started with the basics so you can start earning points today and have plenty for your trip.
• Pass on the bread – Some restaurants charge extra for bread or breadsticks set on the table — but they won’t tell you until the bill comes. Decline the bread to save money.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine at the store for just a few euros. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in Florence so use Couchsurfing to find free accommodation. It’s the best way to save money and connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Take a free walking tour – This is a great way to learn the history of the city, see the main attractions, and fill in your day without spending a lot of money. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Florence

There are several budget-friendly hostels in Florence. You can use this article to see the best neighborhoods to stay during your visit. Some of my favorite places to stay in the city are:

• Plus Florence
• Archi Rossi Hostel
• Ostello Bello Firenze (15% off and a free welcome drink if you’re a member of HostelPass )
• YellowSquare Florence
• Villa Royal
• Hotel Giapponel
• Classic Hotel
• CHotel Nizza

How to Get Around Florence

Public transportation – Florence, especially the city center, is very walkable. You can get between all the top sights (like the Duomo and the Uffizi) in just a 5-10 minute walk. The furthest you will walk to see just about any attraction is 30 minutes.

That said, if you need public transportation to get around, Florence’s Autolinee Toscane bus system is efficient and reliable. A bus ticket that’s valid for 90 minutes costs 1.70 EUR (or 3 EUR if purchased on the bus, though drivers often run out of tickets). You can get tickets at just about any newsstand or kiosk. You can also buy ten 90-minute tickets for 15.50 EUR.

Bicycle – Florence is mostly flat and ideal for cycling. Rentals start around 15 EUR per day. E-bikes cost 30-45 EUR per day.

Taxi – Taxis aren’t cheap here, so I don’t recommend taking them. The base rate is 3.30 EUR, and then it’s an additional 0.10 EUR per kilometer with a minimum fare of 5 EUR. Skip the taxis if you’re on a budget!

When to Go to Florence

Florence is a year-round destination. The warmest months are July and August, which is also peak season. The average high throughout July and August is 31°C (88°F). Temperatures are slightly cooler in June and September, but these months are also very busy. Be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance if you’ll be visiting during this time of year. You can also catch the Florence Dance Festival through most of July.

Winter is the coolest time of year, with an average high of 11°C (52°F). This is when you’ll encounter fewer crowds and prices will be at their lowest. If you’re there on January 6th, you can experience the celebration of Epiphany with the locals. It’s a celebration of the three kings arriving in Bethlehem and is the traditional gift giving day for Florence. There’s a parade and people dress up in costumes to reenact the nativity. During February, the city celebrates Carnival with parades, floats, costumes, and a huge puppet dragon.

My favorite months to visit are during the spring and fall when the weather is still nice but the crowds have thinned out. Prices will still be much cheaper than summer as well. From March-May and October-November, temperatures average 7-13°C (46-55°F). It gets a bit rainy during this time, especially in November. Make sure you have a few layers with you.

During the spring, the city celebrates Florentine New Year which falls on the feast of the Annunciation. The city also hosts a major celebration for Easter Sunday. The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, a celebration of classical music and dance, happens in May.

The fall has plenty of events to enjoy as well. The Festival of Paper Lanterns happens in September and has been happening since the Renaissance. There’s a parade and crowds walk through the streets with their paper lanterns illuminated in the evening.

How to Stay Safe in Florence

Florence is a very safe place to backpack and travel – even if you’re traveling solo or even as a solo female traveler. While violent crime is rare, scams and pick-pocketing are common, especially at major tourist sites. Be vigilant around Piazza del Duomo and Ponte Vecchio and always keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Don’t buy “skip-the-line” tickets from people on the street as they are usually scamming you and selling you fake tickets. To learn more about scams, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid here.

It’s also a good idea to avoid wandering around the city alone at night, especially in Santa Maria Novella.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe, however, the standard precautions apply (when out at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink, avoid walking home alone at night if you’ve been drinking, etc.). There are many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web that can give you specific information about a place. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Florence Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Florence Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

The Best Walking Tours in Bologna

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

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Florence, Italy: cradle of the Renaissance

Florence's museums, palaces, and churches house some of the greatest artistic treasures in the world. The most popular and important sites in Florence include the Cathedral , the Baptistery , the Uffizi , the Bargello , and the Accademia . The churches of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce are veritable art galleries, and the library of San Lorenzo is a magnificent exhibition of Michelangelo's architectural genius. Wander some of the oldest streets in the city until you reach the Arno River, cross the Ponte Vecchio , and experience the "newest" area of Florence, the Oltrarno . Be sure to set aside time to see the vast and varied art collection housed in the Pitti Palace . When you grow weary of museums and monuments, head outdoors. Spend a day at the Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte to experience an enchanting view of Florence, Italy.

Florence and its magnificent treasures await your visit!

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For the first time ever in its 111 years, the start of one of the most famous international cycling races takes off in Italy and will cross the regions of Tuscany, Emilia Romagna and Piedmont before heading into France. The Grand Start takes place...

Climbing to the top of the Duomo in Florence

Climb to the top of the cathedral's dome to enjoy an extraordinary view of Florence. Be prepared to climb lots of steps!

5 Museums to Visit With the Family

Florence is already an open-air museum, but there are also museums that offer children of all ages the chance to enjoy a bit of art and culture, with activities appropriate to their age. Here are 5 family-friendly museums we suggest you add to your itinerary when visiting Florence with your kids.

Santa Maria Novella Church

The decorative marble facade of Tuscany's most important Gothic church incorporates billowing sails and ostrich feathers (emblem of the Medici). The church houses immense artistic treasures, donated by wealthy patrons, many with chapels named after them.

Top Experiences in Florence

Top 10 Luxury Accommodations

The glamour and elegance of the Renaissance City, is the perfect setting for a weekend escape or luxury holidays with family and friends in Florence Italy.  Our list of top ten luxury accommodations will make it easy to find the one for you.

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The best way to keep the family & kids engaged while exploring the beauty of Florence? Include one of our 5 tours for family fun. They are adventurous & exciting, but most of all a great opportunity to create unforgettable vacation memories.

8 Ways to Enjoy Florence when it is Hot

Aimlessly wandering the summer streets of Florence can prove to be a bit much if you don’t like the heat. These are our top 8 choices for keeping it cool with an organized tour while on holiday in the beautiful Renaissance City.

Book Top Restaurants in Florence

Take a look at the top rated restaurants in Florence and book your table now on The Fork!

Panoramic View from Piazzale Michelangelo

Piazzale Michelangelo is the place to go to get all those beautiful panoramic views of the city and catch a stunning sunset. The viewpoint is to the south of the historical center, here's how to get there either by foot or bus!

Florence Tours

Personalized and guided tours of Florence will help you organizing your visit of the city and enjoy all its marvellous attractions. Book in advance the tour that interests you, choose among the many options of walking tours offered and explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the historical center.

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Florence Travel Guide

• General Info
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Florence
• Where to Stay
• Where to eat
• 48-Hour Itinerary

Florence (Firenze in Italian) is a small cultural metropolis that offers visitors some of the world’s top museums and art galleries . The city is a real open-air museum and is the birthplace of the Renaissance .

Why visit Florence?

Tuscany is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and as the capital of the region, Florence is mainly visited for its museums , its fashion boutiques, its tasty Florentine cuisine, for an unforgettable experience watching the sunset over the Ponte Vecchio or to admire some of the most stunning Renaissance artwork, like the sculpture of David . If we're sure of something, is that Florence will leave no visitor indifferent.

Florence is a tourist destination that can be seen in one day or in a week . Some travellers prefer to go for a day or two from Rome to see the top attractions and get a feel for the city, while others prefer to take their time in Florence and take advantage of their trip to visit other villages and towns in the stunning region of Tuscany. Whether it be for a day, a week or a month, visitors will want to return to Florence in the near future .

How to organise your trip?

Before preparing your trip to Florence, we recommend reading about the city’s history and general information , which can be useful for when you're in the metropolis. Then why not read about  Florence’s top attractions , the best museums and art galleries ?

When it's time to look for a hotel,  we suggest reading our article on the best areas to stay in Florence. And just before travelling, we recommend reading about the region’s traditional cuisine , so that you do not miss out on any of the city’s top dishes. With all this information, you'll guarantee an unforgettable trip to Florence.

Book your hotel in advance

Since Florence is one of the most visited cities in Italy, we recommend booking your hotel or accommodation as far in advance as possible. Check out the following link and  you'll find all types of hotels, hostels and apartments with the best rates guaranteed . You can get up to 75% off if you pay directly at the hotel.

• Hotels in Florence – Book online for the best rates guaranteed

Want to discover other Italian cities?

If you're travelling through Italy and want to find information on other great places to visit, check out our travel guides of Rome , Milan and Venice .

top activities

Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip Take a day trip from Florence and discover three of Italy’s most beautiful cities . The Tour also includes an exquisite 3-course Italian lunch at a winery.

San Gimignano, Siena & Chianti Day Trip Set off on a fabulous day trip from Florence and discover Tuscany’s medieval towns, beautiful countryside and wine territory .

Private Tour of Florence Discover the most emblematic landmarks of Florence accompanied by an exclusive guide. The birthplace of the Renaissance awaits!

Accademia Gallery Guided Tour Accompanied by an expert guide, skip the line and get straight into the Accademia Gallery and discover Renaissance masterpieces including Michelangelo's “David”

Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour Skip the line and visit the most important museum in Florence with a professional guide. The Uffizi is a must-see for all first time visitors to Florence.

Free Walking Tour of Florence Join us on this free walking tour in Florence. We'll explore the  historic centre of what is a Renaissance open-air museum and uncover the Tuscan Capital's past.

Cinque Terre Day Trip Take a day trip to Cinque Terre - a group of fishing villages on the Italian Riviera surrounded by hills and vineyards. One of the best day trips from Florence!

Pisa and the Leaning Tower Half-Day Trip Set off on a day trip to Pisa and explore one of the most visited cities in Italy on a guided tour of the centre and then climb the world-famous Leaning Tower.

On our unforgettable electric buggy tour of Florence, we'll explore  one of the Italian Renaissance's most important cities  in a fun and unique way. Let's go!

Chianti Tour by Vintage Fiat 500 Spend the day driving a beautiful and  classic Fiat 500  and explore Tuscany’s stunning landscape and its scattered medieval and Renaissance villages

Florence Cathedral Guided Tour Fall in love with one of the jewels of the Italian Renaissance with this fantastic guided tour of Florence Cathedral. It's perfect for art and history lovers!

Florence Cathedral Tour + Dome & Terraces Discover the Italian Renaissance on our tour of the Florence Cathedral . You'll have access to the temple, the panoramic terraces & the Brunelleschi Dome !

Guided Tour of Santa Croce Basilica Discover the beautiful Tuscan church, originally dating back to 1212, hosting a great amount of artistic wealth with this Guided Tour of Santa Croce Basilica.

Pitti Palace & Palantine Gallery Tour Discover the Medici dynasty's place of residence and be fascinated by one of Italy's largest art collections with this Pitti Palace & Palantine Gallery Tour.

Chianti Half-Day Wine Tour Explore the Chianti wine region during a half day trip from Florence and visit two rustic wine estates, where you will enjoy a tasting of local produce.

Pienza, Monteriggioni & Montalcino Day Trip Join us on a route of medieval Tuscany on this day trip to Pienza ,  Monteriggioni and  Montalcino . We'll see the most charming corners of Tuscany !

Pienza & Montepulciano Day Trip + Wine Tasting Travel into the heart of Siena on this day trip . You'll visit two villages famous for their charming atmosphere and sample some fine local wines .

Medici Riccardi Palace Guided Tour Visit one of the most important buildings of the Renaissance on this Medici Riccardi Palace tour. You'll learn how the most powerful family in Florence lived!

Florence Hop On Hop Off Bus Discover Florence’s top sights, monuments, squares, and streets at your own leisure along the route of this Hop-On Hop-Off tour bus.

Chianti Wine Tour Discover one of Italy's most famous winemaking regions with this Chianti Wine Tour. Visit this charming town in the picturesque Tuscan landscape.

Baptistery & Duomo Museum Tour + Giotto's Bell Tower Explore two of the most important buildings in Piazza di San Giovanni on this tour of the Baptistery & the Opera del Duomo Museum .

Opera in the Santo Stefano al Ponte Vecchio Enjoy a live performance of the famous opera interpreted by the three tenors in an unsurpassable auditorium : the Santo Stefano al Ponte Vecchio church.

Florence Outlet Shopping Tour Take a shopping trip just 40 minutes from Florence and discover the Barberino Outlet with over 200 stores, including Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Nike and Prada.

Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner During this Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner, a professional chef will guide you step by step to make some of the most typical dishes of the region.

Palazzo Vecchio Secret Passages Tour Wind your way through a labyrinth of hidden doors and corridors concealed within an ancient Florentine palace on our Palazzo Vecchio Secret Passages Tour.

Medici Florence Tour Dive head first into  Florence ! Stroll through the street on a guided tour as we uncover the impact of the famous Medici family on the city's architecture .

Palazzo Vecchio Guided Tour Skip the line and step into the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall and one of the city’s most emblematic buildings with an expert English-speaking guide.

Assisi and Orvieto Day Trip On this tour, we'll remember the film Under the Tuscan Sun travelling through the regions of Umbria and Tuscany and visiting towns such as Assisi and Orvieto .

Pisa and Lucca Day Trip Take a day trip from Florence to discover Pisa and Lucca, two of Tuscany’s most-visited cities, and their famous attractions including the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Arno River Boat Tour On this peaceful boat ride through Florence, we'll navigate the Arno River and cross under the arches of the Ponte Vecchio in an authentic Florentine gondola!

Sunset in Siena and Chianti Dinner Set off on a day trip to the magnificent city of Siena and admire a beautiful sunse, then head to a wine estate in the Chianti area. A perfect Tuscan evening.

Chianti Vespa Tour Touring the Chianti region is incredible, but doing it on a Vespa while soaking up the smells and sounds of Tuscany makes it a unique experience.

Sant’Ambrogio Market Food Tour On this food tour of the San Ambrogio market , you'll get to taste the delicious schiacciata of the award-winning All'Antico Vinaio sandwich shop  and much more!

Pizza and Opera in Florence Would you like to enjoy an unforgettable evening in Florence ? Then, don't miss this pizza dinner and opera in the Oltrarno district of the Renaissance city!

Florence Food Tour On our Florence food tour , we'll visit the San Lorenzo Market and several restaurants. We'll also taste lots of delicious, traditional Tuscan products .

Inferno Guided Tour Are you a fan of Professor Robert Langdon's adventures? Follow in his footsteps with this Inferno Guided Tour and discover the settings of the novel and film!

Hard Rock Cafe Florence Enjoy delicious American cuisine in a restaurant decorated with tons of rock 'n' roll memorabilia at the Hard Rock Cafe in Florence !

Venice Day Trip Discover the most famous floating city in the World when you take this brilliant trip to Venice, Italy's most enchanting city.

Private Day Trip from Florence Explore the areas surrounding the Renaissance capital with a Private Day Trip from Florence. Discover the charming Tuscan region with an exclusive guide.

Italian Pizza & Gelato Workshop Experience Italian cuisine first-hand and cook alongside a professional chef on this Italian Pizza and Gelato Workshop. Enjoy making your own delicious dishes!

Bargello Museum Guided Tour Admire remarkable works of art to come from the Italian Renaissance with this Bargello Museum guided tour . Discover the impressive techniques and history.

Renting a Vespa with an audio guide is the most fun and typical way to discover all the treasures that surround Florence , the city of the Renaissance.

Florence City Pass Save money while travelling in Florence with the Florence City Pass ! Also, enjoy priority access to the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery .

On this electric bike tour of Florence and Piazza Michelangelo , we'll ride through one of the most beautiful areas of the capital of Tuscany.

Electric Boat Ride & Tuscan Lunch Experience the charm of Florence from a unique vantage point with this electric boat ride on the Arno River , followed by a delectable Tuscan lunch .

Mount Vesuvius Day Trip Hop on a train to Naples for a day trip to Mount Vesuvius - ascend to the summit aboard a minibus and learn about this historic volcano from an expert guide.

Dante Alighieri Tour around Florence Uncover the medieval history of the Tuscan capital and its most famous citizen on this Dante Alighieri tour of Florence . Explore where the author was born!

Leonardo Interactive Museum® Ticket Discover the incredible inventions, ideas and objects designed by the most renowned Florentine artist in the world with this Leonardo Interactive Museum® Tour.

Pompeii Train Excursion In Florence & want to visit the Roman city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius? Don't hesitate to book this excursion to Pompeii by train !

Piazzale Michelangelo Walking Tour This walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo will take us to one of the most famous squares in Florence, from where we'll look out over the city of the Arno .

Florence, Accademia and Uffizi Gallery Tour Take a guided tour of Florence’s historic center followed by the visit to two of the city’s most famous museums: Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Gallery.

Florence Mysteries & Legends Free Tour On this free tour of Florence , we'll get to know the darker and more hidden side of the city while discovering its most surprising mysteries and legends .

Learn how to make some Italian dishes and delicious desserts   with this pasta and pastry workshop in Florence . You'll get to sample your creations!

Florence Walking Tour Take a guided tour of Florence and discover why it is considered the cradle of Renaissance while you admire its most emblematic monuments and buildings.

Florence Mysteries & Legends Tour The beautiful Italian city of Florence is a hive of legendary tales and hidden secrets. Explore its most mysterious corners on this guided walking tour.

Why read our Florence guide?

Our Florence tourist guide has been created by travelers like you to help you plan your trip and get the most out of it, all the while saving money.

The information in this guide was updated in February 2024. If you find any errors or anything you think we should change, please get in touch .

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Florence, Italy Map & Guide

Visit firenze, everyone's favorite renaissance city in tuscany.

Why go to Florence, or Firenze as the Italians say? Well, certainly you know that Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, was one of Italy's first UNESCO world heritage sites and stands as one of the top tourist destinations in Tuscany . The Arno river flows through it--and sometimes over and under it.

Florence is 172 miles north of Rome and 185 miles south of Milan. Despite traffic jams on the perifery, Florence isn't a huge city. It has a population of around 400,000 people, with around 200,000 more in suburban areas.

In the summer, Florence's centro storico , the historic center, is hot, humid and clogged with tourists. The mass of tourists shouldn't be a surprise to you. After all, nearly everyone wants to see its palaces and museums. Besides, summer offers a chance for the tourist to extend their days into the evenings. According to the folks planning these things, April 30 marks the "First Night of Summer", which kicks off "Estate Fiorentina" (Florentine Summer) which features six months of concerts, shows and events of various kinds taking place in venues across the central city.

Yes, along with tourists come the dollars that encourage historical preservation and hedonistic celebration, so don't let them tell you to skip Florence if you haven't explored it.

Just don't think you can drive around the center of Florence at will. The train will do nicely, because the ZTL, the limited traffic zone that marks the heart of Florence, is one of the most diabolical tourist traps of them all. Really, they have this one covered. Don't plan on driving in central Florence. Parking lots ring the ZTL for your convenience, and here's a page that maps the best lots and explains it all to you: Parking in Florence: Where to park?

When to Go to Florence

We have already discussed summer. Go if it appeals to you, but you might want to make sure your hotel or apartment includes air conditioning--or at least decent ventilation. I prefer spring and fall climate conditions, specifically April and May or September and October. November is a fine time to buy that leather coat and wrap yourself in one of the iconic Fiorentine jackets while touring in the chill of Autumn. Of course we have historic climate information and the latest, up to date weather in Florence .

Florence Airport

The Aeroporto di Firenze, commonly referred to as Aeroporto Amerigo Vespucci or simply Peretola, is located 4 km from the center of Florence. A taxi can make the trip in 15 minutes, and the Sita/Ataf "Fly by Bus" between the airport and Firenze SMN (Santa Maria Novella) railway station takes 20 minutes. The Florence bus station is adjacent to Santa Maria Novella.

Find a Good Price on a Flight

If you are coming into Florence from an international destination, you are probably using Galileo Galilei airport, closer to Pisa.

To order a trip to a hotel with a private driver in advence of your trip, we recommend our partner Welcome Pickups.

Welcome Pickups, Florence, Italy

Florence Train Stations

Florence's main train station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella , is located in the historical center of Florence. Most tourist attractions are within walking distance. It's a busy station with many services; nearly 60 million people a year pass through it.

Most of the important city buses (orange) stop across the road from the station on Via Valfonda.

You might decide to use Florence as a base and explore other Tuscan cities via train. It's the convenient way to do it, since you don't have to look for parking for a car every time you leave the city. Arezzo , for example, is 40 minutes away by train, and the cost of a ticket is around $13. Venice is a little over two hours away, if that's your next destination, and costs about $54 per person.

Florence has two other outlying stations, Firenze Campo di Marte , which handles regional traffic to the south, and Firenze Rifredi , which handles regional traffic to Prato, Bologna, Pisa, Livorno, Pistoia, Lucca, Viareggio, Carrara, La Spezia, Siena, Campiglia Marittima and Grosseto.

Finding a Taxi in Florence

As is usual in Italian cities, one generally gets a taxi at a taxi stand or by calling. Taxis don't roam the narrow streets for fares. You can find the cost of a taxi using the widget below. 

There are no Uber services in Florence. The Tour Guy explains:

In the past, Uber was tested in Florence Italy but in the end, it didn’t make much sense. The city is majority pedestrian with a strong train system getting travelers in and out. You can walk from Accademia on one side of the city to the Pitti Palace on the opposite side in 20 minutes. -- Why Is Uber Not in Florence, Italy ?

Calling (or messaging) a Radio Taxi

Local Telephone: 055-4242 or see Taxi 4242

Map of Florence

The top attractions in florence.

To get a ticket that allows for "beat the line" tours of Florence's top things to do, see: The Florence Pass , which allows for visits to the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, a climb up Brunelleschi's Dome and a Florence app for your phone.

Duomo di Firenze

Officially it's the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. Pick a time when the tourist traffic is minimal, like in the early morning, and just walk all around this amazing building. The details will astound you. The piazza contains Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Brunelleschi's Dome (popular, best done on a skip the line tour ), Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Crypt of Santa Reparata and the Opera Museum.

What to See in Piazzo del Duomo

Uffizi Gallery

Cosimo I di Medici wanted offices, so Giorgio Vasari began building them in 1560. After the age of the Medici's passed, the building was opened to the public as a museum in 1765. The Uffizi is ranked as the 25th on the most visited art museums in the world, with around 2 million visitors annually. In high season (particularly in July), waiting times can be up to five hours. Buy your tickets in advance.

Website Skip the Line Tickets & Tours

Pitti Palace

The Palazzo Pitti is a major tourist attraction on the south side of the Arno river not for from the Ponte Vecchio. Originally the residence of Luca Pitti, the Florentine banker, it dates from 1458. It is now the largest museum complex in Florence. Besides paintings, you'll see Museums of Silver, Porcelain, Consumes and Carriages and you'll be able to stroll through the adjacent Boboli Gardens.

Find out more... Pitti Palace Tours

More Florence Attractions

• Florence's Archaeological Museum -- Museo archeologico nazionale di Firenze is housed in a palace built in the 1620s and filled with great, Roman, Greek, Egyptian and Etruscan collections. 1 piazza Santissima Annunziata, in the Palazzo della Crocetta, Admission € 4,00, free on the first Sunday of the month. [ Information and Skip the line tickets for the National Archaeological Museum ]
• House-Museum of Dante -- ok, it's a little offbeat, but I liked the medieval section of the city and visiting a house of the famous Dante. Via S. Margherita, 1, 3 Euros, closed Tuesday.
• The Ponte Vecchio -- The Old Bridge looks from the outside as if it were still crowded with the crammed blacksmith and butcher shops of the medieval period, but it's all glittery gold and tourist baubles today. Spared from bombing in WWII, it used to be built of wood but a rebuild in the 1300's made it mostly stone. Free, unless you run afoul of a jewelry or porcelain statue salesman.
• The Church of San Lorenzo -- It's not impressive from the outside, but it's probably the oldest religious structure in Florence. They say it was probably founded before year 400 and its art holdings include stuff by Donatello and Bronzino.

Top Sites in Florence

Hidden Florence

Church of Ognissanti

See the recently restore Crucifix by the Giotto school (pictured) as well as the Last Supper by Domenico Ghirlandaio in this church founded in 1251 by the Umiliati, who had come to Florence from Lombardy in 1239

Find out more...

Museo Nazionale di San Marco

Don't let the name put you off. This is an inexpensive visit to the Dominican church and convent of San Marco with its atmosphere--and spectacular Fra Angelico frescoes--intact. The early renaissance painter frescoed each cell of the monks cloister. Founded in 1436, the complex was also home to Girolamo Savonarola in the late 15th century.

Hours and Opening Times Tickets

Secret Itineraries Tour, Palazzo Vecchio, Florence

Our guide shows us the clothing of the Signoria, the group of men who formed the ruling body of the Republic of Florence. We have squeezed through a narrow door and a tiny flight of stairs to reach the the red clothing dyed with the eggs of an insect, distinguishing these men from the hoi palloi . This is our favorite tour of Florence.

Palazzo Vecchio Tours

Eat and Drink

Piero, our Florence Food Guy, recommends some interesting places he like to take meals in the city.

Piero's favorite Breakfast Bar: Cucciolo Bar Pasticceria. The Cucciolo Bar Pasticceria is known for its Bombolone, a sort of Tuscan donut that here is cooked and immediately send town a chute from the kitchen upstairs so that each one slides down to the front of the bar where you can grab one and chow down. Your breakfast bombolone doesn't get fresher than that. Also try the Fishermen's Bread. Via del Corso 25r, Florence.

Lunch among the Leather Jackets: Trattoria Sergio Gozzi. Look up from the rows of leather jackets and search out the old fashioned sign. Get there early. Locals pack the place.

Piazza di San Lorenzo, 8R, 50123 Florence, Italy

Drinks With a View: Biblioteca delle Oblate

The Biblioteca delle Oblate is a former convent; the nuns here did the laundry for the adjacent hospital--you can see the wash tubs downstairs. And there really is a historic library here. But the star of the show is the second floor cafe with a view of the dome of the duomo.

(In the evening the space features an antipasto buffet and occasionally concerts; Patty Smith has played here.)

Biblioteca de le Oblate

Via dell’Oriuolo 26

Closed on Sundays and Holidays

Dinner and Wine:

There are many ways to enjoy your evenings out in Florence. One of our favorites includes fancy drinks and dinner at the traditional Cafaggi. Another includes dinner at La Cucina del Ghianda and dessert at Cibreo Cafe . Both are fantastic choices.

We also like L' Osteria di Giovanni on a narrow street, Via del Moro, 22, between the Arno and Santa Maria Novella train station in Santo Spirito. You can reserve online through the website.

Tired of restaurants? Another dining option you might wish to consider is to go to the place of residence of a "home chef" and have an evening of discovery over some good, home cooked food. See: Where to Eat in Florence, Italy .

Where to Stay

We enjoyed our stay at the Adler Cavalieri Hotel . a four star historic hotel near the train and bus stations. Free wifi and Gluten free breakfast is available. The hotel is marked on the map above.

For a hotel you can drive to, the Classic Hotel is an old palace converted to a hotel near the Boboli Gardens that offers free parking and WiFi.

Looking for an great apartment within spitting distance of the Duomo? We enjoyed our stay at Asso's Place , which includes spectacular views of the dome of the Duomo.

Looking for a cheap, centrally located hotel that folks who've stayed there like? The Hotel Giappone will do.

For choosing a hotel, B&B or vacation apartment by location, see the map below:

Shopping in Florence

Tourist junk is on sale everywhere, so you will need no assistance to find the ubiquitous tee shirts people foist upon their kids and friends. Things good for poking a stranger in the eye like selfie sticks and umbrellas are handled conveniently by immigrants. Here are some specialty shopping opportunities.

Housewares and Cooking Supplies: Bartolini - Food is special in Italy, so If you're looking for a special device to make ravioli for your Florence apartment or want a small kitchen trinket to bring as a gift, this emporium on Via dei Servi 66/68R should have what you want.

Arty Stuff: Galleria Alessandro Bagnai - unique art works and jewelry by More than two dozen artists exhibit their unique art in a rotating display at the gallery in Piazza Goldoni 2 near the Arno. Even if you don't buy anything, you can admire the frescoes on the store's ceiling.

Come up and see their etchings: Il Tamarino Stampe d'Arte - Purchase etchings and prints using ancient engraving and printing techniques hand painted with watercolors. You can special order subjects. Via del Moro 46R.

What's your perfect scent? Acquaflor - Yes, a perfume shop like no other. You can take classes on perfumery or have them make you a scent tailored to who you are and what you smell like normally. Read about Acquaflor .

We totally like the concept of shopping provided by Florentine Experience Shopping . Instead of buying cheap tourist crap made by political prisoners in China, you can be guided by Maria to the best artisans in Florence. You can get shoes made just for you, see and buy stone mosaics and more. Be a responsible traveler. Buy something real.

Our Favorite European Plug Adapter for Italy

Day Trips from Florence

If you are convinced Florence is the town for you, it's not a bad idea to consider it as a base for travels in Northern Tuscany, which offers many interesting towns and places to visit. You could spend a week or two in an apartment and use the train to visit such places as the popular walled town of Lucca or the Spa town of Montecatini Terme for example.

If you prefer coach tours you can get out into the Tuscan countryside without a car. Viator's top Florence tours include walking and Segway tours of Florence itself, or tours of Pisa and the Tuscan wine country. You can also tour Tuscany in a Vespa .

Your itinerary for two weeks could focus on this interesting bit of Tuscany, or you could combine Florence and Tuscany with a trip to Rome , perhaps.

How to Visit Italy's Big Three Cities Via train, bus, car, or airline

How to get from Rome to Florence

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25 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

From Renaissance art to gelato shops, here's how locals recommend exploring the Tuscan capital.

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

If a European getaway — the type where you spend your days museum hopping, visiting historical sites, drinking wine, and doubling your usual daily step count — sounds like your ideal next adventure, it's time to book a trip to Florence. The capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it is still home to famous works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci, among many artists of the same era.  Sara Pallabazzar, a guide with ToursByLocals , describes Florence as an “open-air museum" where you can experience “the enchantment of past centuries portrayed by works of art” everywhere you go. Adriano Pecoraro, head concierge at Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence , echoes this sentiment, noting that Firenze should be “discovered on foot.” That means you’ll want to pack your best travel shoes to navigate the architectural treasures inside Palazzo Vecchio or to make your way up the 463 steps of the Duomo — an iconic symbol of Florence that Pallabazzar says is “visible from every point in the city.”

Florence is bursting with beauty in the form of frescoed chapels, cobblestoned piazzas, and both natural and manmade masterpieces. There are so many sights to see and things to do, in fact, that it can be difficult to decide what to add to your itinerary. To help narrow it down, we asked a few Florentines to share their recommendations in one of the top cities in the world , as voted by Travel + Leisure readers in this year's World’s Best Awards . 

And if you can’t fit everything into one trip, don't worry. “Florence, to me, is like New York City ,” says Pallabazzar. “You always want to go back.” There's also always a new place to stay with Florence brimming with fantastic hotels . Read on to discover the 25 best things to do in Florence — whether you’re visiting for the very first time or returning for more Renaissance art, architecture, and unforgettable Italian dishes.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

Head to the city's historic center..

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Pallabazzar recommends seeing the historic center of Florence at different times of the day. In the early morning, you’ll get to experience it “without noise and the pressing pace of crowds.” Midday brings droves of visitors, but the destination is “bathed in sunshine.” In the evening, “the lights of the street lamps stretch out over the Lungarni, creating a truly magical effect.”

Visit the Uffizi Gallery.

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The Uffizi Gallery “is a great way to comprehend the genius and the importance of the Medici family, and why Florentines are so proud of their history,” says Pecoraro. “[It’s a] treasure chest of beauty that preserves works of art from the late 1200s to the Baroque, along with an amazing collection of marble groups from the classical period,” adds Pallabazzar. Famous works inside the Uffizi Gallery include Titian’s "Venus of Urbino" and Botticelli’s "The Birth of Venus" and "Primavera."

Discover the work of Florentine artisans.

“Florence is world-renowned for its high-end craftsmanship, manufacturing know-how, and creativity," says Pecoraro. "The art of handcraft and the ability of creation is what made Florence shine in Europe during [the] Renaissance.” To provide travelers with a deeper understanding of these manual traditions, Villa San Michele offers an "Art of Making” tour , where guests uncover lesser-known Florentine creations, including jewelry, bow ties, eyewear, crystalware, hats, artisanal perfumery, and pottery.

Check into one of the city’s most opulent hotels.

Courtesy of Four Seasons

After a long day exploring the city, you’ll want to return to a luxurious, comfortable, and far-from-minimalist room — you are in Florence, after all. In our annual “World’s Best Awards” survey for 2023, T+L readers voted The St. Regis Florence , Helvetia & Bristol Firenze , Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel , Four Seasons Hotel Firenze , and Brunelleschi Hotel as the top five properties in the city.

Enjoy a bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Max Musto, general manager of Four Seasons Hotel Firenze , describes the bistecca alla Fiorentina as a “mouthwatering T-bone steak cooked over an open flame, seasoned with just a touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper.” The dish was recommended by several of our experts; Pallabazzar suggests making a restaurant reservation in advance if you're dreaming of eating a massive Florentine steak. “Real steak is not to be found in the city, or displayed in plain sight in the store window," she says. "You need to go to the countryside, to Greve in Chianti, for example, or Lastra a Signa." 

Appreciate Michelangelo's work inside the Medici Chapels.

The Medici Chapels are part of the San Lorenzo complex — where you’ll also find the Basilica of San Lorenzo — and the burial ground for the members of the Medici family. Michelangelo’s influence is ever-present, as he worked on the mausoleum, the New Sacristy , before leaving for Rome in 1534.

See the city from Piazzale Michelangelo.

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 “One of the best locations to watch Florence from the top hills is Piazzale Michelangelo,” says Ruggero Vannini, head concierge at Hotel Savoy . But, he warns, it can be crowded. As an alternative, he suggests heading to the town of Fiesole for a similar perspective. 

Dine at a local trattoria.

“Dining at one of the many Florentine trattorias is the best way to dive into a timeless local social experience,” says Pecoraro. To get you started, he recommends Buca Lapi , Trattoria Cammillo , and Trattoria 13 Gobbi.

Find all of the Davids.

Travelers interested in art should plan out what Pallabazzar calls “the David experience.” This begins with the Piazza della Signoria to see the replica of Michelangelo’s David, followed by The Bargello , where the bronze Davids by Verrocchio and Donatello are housed. Finally, she says, you’ll reach the Accademia Gallery and Michelangelo’s David, a figure “celebrated by Renaissance artists” and one “that reminds us of lost Florentine freedom.”

Cheers over Negronis.

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Florence is the birthplace of the Negroni, so sipping one (or two) is a must. In fact, “[enjoying] aperitivo at sunset with a view” tops Percoraro’s list of the best things to do while in the city. 

Visit Museo di San Marco.

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This still-functioning monastery was designed by architect Michelozzo in the 15th century. Today, visitors come to Museo di San Marco for the frescoes and panels by Fra Angelico, as well as its courtyard, cloisters, palazzo, and garden.

Climb Brunelleschi's dome.

The Florence Cathedral (or Duomo) is composed of six separate parts, two of which are the cathedral itself — which was formerly known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore — and Brunelleschi's dome. “One cannot help but tackle the 463 steps to reach the lantern at the top of Brunelleschi's dome," says Pallabazzar. From here, climbers "enjoy a breathtaking view of Florence's rooftops.”

See the Ponte Vecchio from the water.

Translated as “Old Bridge,” the Ponte Vecchio is one of the most well-known images associated with Florence. To get a picture-perfect moment, head out on the river Arno.  “A unique way to have a sense of the city as a whole is to navigate the Arno river in a typical wooden boat guided by the ‘Renaioli,’ romantically sliding their boats under the city's most famous and ancient bridges,” says Musto. 

Venture into the Oltrarno district.

“If you want to discover an alternative Florence, tour the Oltrarno district, the area on the left bank of the Arno river,” says Vannini. Here, he says, “an atmosphere of the old neighborhood” is preserved. Two of the more famous sites within the district are Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens, and Bardini Garden — more on that below. 

Stroll through the Bardini and Boboli Gardens.

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Florentine art and architecture also extend to the city’s green spaces and gardens. Behind the Pitti Palace sits Boboli Gardens , which Vannini describes as “one of the largest and most elegant Italian-style gardens.” Bardini Garden is Also on his must-do list. “The Bardini Garden offers wonderful views of Florence from its four hectares of parkland between the left bank of the Arno River, Montecuccoli Hill, and the medieval wall,” he says. 

Make your own perfume at AquaFlor Firenze.

If you want a special souvenir you can use and appreciate long after you've left Italy, register for a session at AquaFlor Firenze . Located in a historic Renaissance palace, the hour-long class allows guests to create their own signature scent and take it home in a 100-milliliter bottle.

Leave the city on a bicycle or Vespa.

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At some point during your trip, Pecoraro suggests journeying to the outskirts of the city, either by bike or scooter. “From Fiesole to Settignano to Maiano, from Forte Belvedere to Poggio Imperiale to Castello — these areas hide incredible treasures, such as ancient charming villas, inspiring historical gardens, vineyard scenarios, and a profound sense of poetry and love,” he says.

Have a glass of Chianti Classico.

According to Pallabazzar, there’s one red you absolutely need to try when in Florence. “Chianti Classico is different from regular Chianti, as it is made from grapes that grow in sandier soils, which makes it lighter than the regular,” she says. “The flavor is strong and robust, and the ruby color [is] very well suited to meats and cured meats.”

Walk through Corridoio Vasariano.

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“Imagine strolling above the bustling streets of Florence on a hidden passage that was built for royalty,” says Musto. Referring to Corridoio Vasariano, he explains that the “architectural marvel” offers a “glimpse into the past as you tread the same path that once connected the Medici rulers to their offices and residence.” Though closed since 2016, the site is slated to reopen in late 2023.

Make a stop at Palazzo Vecchio.

The town hall of Florence, Palazzo Vecchio is an amazing example of Renaissance architecture. Statues by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Giorgio Vasari dot the exterior, and the interior is equally incredible. Inside, you’ll see the private studio of Francesco I de' Medici and the largest room in Florence, the “Salone dei Cinquecento," among other wonders. 

Have a lampredotto for lunch.

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Alongside the Florentine steak, Vannini says you can’t miss the panino al lampredotto . “The lampredotto panino is more than just a simple street food — it’s an institution," he explains. "Eating a lampredotto panino means having a genuine experience with Florentine sauce (literally). It is a dish that embodies the spirit of the city — and more generally, that of Tuscany — in food form."

Sign up for a pasta-making class.

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When in Italy, right? Anyone fascinated by the culinary side of Florence will enjoy learning classic pasta recipes and pasta-making techniques in person. Check out Pasta Class Florence and Riva Lofts for hands-on courses.

Visit Basilica di Santa Croce.

Many famous names, including Michelangelo and Galileo, now rest in the Basilica di Santa Croce, which is also known as the “Pantheon of Florence.” There are 16 total chapels inside; the Capella de Pazzi, credited to Brunelleschi, is the most famous.

Taste dishes that combine bread and tomatoes.

Pappa al pomodoro and panzanella are two tomato and bread-based Tuscan dishes to try during your trip. Pallabazzar calls the latter a “recovery salad,” one made with soaked (then squeezed) bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pappa al pomodoro, on the other hand, is more of a tomato and bread soup. “Made with simple ingredients such as ripe tomatoes, stale bread, olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil, this dish beautifully captures the essence of Italian comfort food,” says Musto. "It's a flavorful choice, especially on a cooler day."

End your day with gelato.

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There’s nothing better than a cold treat after a day exploring the streets, art, and buildings of Florence. Pallabazzar recommends Vivoli's or Antica Gelateria Fiorentina in Via Faenza, “where you can still taste Buontalenti , a [flavor] invented for the Medici."

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Florence Travel Guide: Epic 3-Day Itinerary

27 June 2023 · In: City Guide , Florence , Italy

Welcome to Florence, the fascinating capital of Tuscany. From its iconic Duomo to captivating museums and piazzas, this 3-day itinerary is  perfect for first-time visitors  or a  long weekend getaway  with friends. It will show you all the  unique things to do  and guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of your Italian city break.

Whether you are a history buff or an art lover, Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe you should not miss. Home to many  masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture , the city will transport you back in time for a weekend trip you will never forget. 

Climb the  Giotto’s Bell Tower  for stunning views, visit the  Galleria dell’Accademia  to marvel at the famous Michelangelo’s sculpture of David and tour the  Uffizi Gallery  to see  The Birth of Venus  by Botticelli.

Excited? Keep reading this  city guide  to discover the  perfect 3-day itinerary  covering the top things to do and enjoy your vacation stress-free – and without rushing. You will also find  practical eco-friendly tips  for  responsible travel  at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

9- Tour the Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi)

7- stop by the basilica of santa maria novella, 7- watch the sunset from piazzale michelangelo, overview: 3 perfect days in florence, day 1 – centro storico.

1- Piazza del Duomo 2- Duomo di Firenze 3- Bell Tower 4- Battistero di San Giovanni 5- Museo dell’Opera del Duomo 6- Piazza della Repubblica 7- Palazzo Vecchio 8- Piazza della Signoria 9- Uffizi Gallery

Day 2 – San Marco

1- Piazza San Marco 2- San Marco Museum 3- Accademia Gallery 4- Mercato Centrale 5- Palazzo Medici Riccardi 6- Basilica di San Lorenzo 7- Basilica Santa Maria Novella

Day 3 – Oltrarno

1- Basilica di Santa Croce 2- Ponte Vecchio 3- Oltrarno 4- Brancacci Chapel 5- Palazzo Pitti 6- Boboli Gardens 7- Piazzale Michelangelo

Florence 3-day itinerary – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Detailed itinerary: 3 days in Florence

This Florence guide covers all the best things to do and see in 3 days and is perfect for travelling with family, friends or as a couple, whether it is your first time in the city or you have been there before.

On the other hand, remember that this itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You can spend more days in the Tuscan capital or add other stops to your trip.

READ MORE: Most Scenic Road Trips in Italy: 10 Epic Routes

1- Explore Piazza del Duomo

Your first day in Florence begins at the iconic Piazza del Duomo, set in the  heart of the historic centre . It is one of the most visited places in Europe and the world, and you will know why when you come across this area!

Piazza del Duomo is home to  world-famous architectural, religious and cultural monuments  such as the  Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore  (with its famous Dome by Brunelleschi), the  Baptistery  of St. John, Giotto’s  Bell Tower  and the  Museo dell’Opera del Duomo . 

Together, these landmarks form the  Complex of Santa Maria del Fiore , representing over 700 years of history in a single square.

Take the time to wander the piazza and admire its stunning architecture. You will also encounter other  historical buildings and museums  surrounding the square.

2- Visit the Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze)

Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze),  one of the largest churches in the world , is globally known for its breathtaking beauty and architecture. 

Begun in 1296 in a Gothic style by Arnolfo di Cambio, it was structurally completed by 1436, with its  magnificent Dome   designed by Filippo Brunelleschi .  

You can visit the Cathedral and enjoy a spectacular view from its Dome, but I recommend  booking your ticket online and in advance . We did not plan beforehand, and everything was booked on the day (and we visited Florence in March). 

Yes, it is required to dress appropriately to access the Cathedral, meaning no bare legs and shoulders, no sandals, hats and sunglasses.

Unforgettable tours & experiences I recommend

3- climb the bell tower (giotto’s campanile).

Next to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, you will find the Bell Tower (Giotto’s Campanile), a  free-standing campanile  part of the complex on the Piazza del Duomo and another perfect illustration of the  14th-century Florentine Gothic architecture .

You can access the summit balconies by  climbing a stairway of 414 steps  (no elevator available), but the panoramic views make it worth it!

It takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to climb up the tower, admire the view and go back down. There is no elevator, so the stairs are the only way up, but the scenery is worthwhile.

4- Admire Florence Baptistery

The Florence Baptistery, also known as the Baptistery of Saint John, is a  religious building  and one of the oldest places of worship in the city. It presents a  captivating geometric structure with an octagonal plan , standing in the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza San Giovanni.

Take the time to marvel at its  stunning architecture  covered with white and green marble from Prato and pass through its doors to discover an  outstanding mosaic  embellishing the ceiling.

5- See the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is a  stunning museum  you should add to your Florence bucket list, especially ideal for history buffs and art lovers.

It is home to the  most extensive collection of Middle Ages and Renaissance sculptures , with masterpieces and original works of art created for the Cathedral, the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile.

6- Stop by Piazza della Repubblica

You continue your journey to Piazza della Repubblica, a  lively square originally the site of the city’s forum in Roman times . You will find in its centre the  Colonna della Dovizia , also known as the Column of Abundance, where the Roman Forum once stood.

Today, it is a charming square to wander around, shop for souvenirs or enjoy a coffee at one of its  historical cafés  including Caffé Gilli, Caffé Paskowski and Caffé delle Giubbe Rosse. 

7- Marvel at Palazzo Vecchio

The Palazzo Vecchio is the  town hall of Florence , overlooking Piazza della Signoria, which features a copy of Michelangelo’s statue of David. It also features  a museum you can visit and a tower you can climb . 

Its  museum  is a fascinating place to travel back in time and where you can admire Roman ruins, a Medieval fortress and impressive Renaissance chambers and paintings.

Its  tower , one of the most imposing medieval towers in Florence, is 95 meters high and offers beautiful views of the historic centre.

Yes, you can climb up the Palazzo Vecchio tower for stunning views over the city. The way up includes over 400 steps and closes when it rains for safety reasons.

8- Discover Piazza della Signoria

Opposite Palazzo Vecchio, you will find Piazza della Signoria, a  w-shaped square  and  the centre of political life in Florence  since the 14th century. It is the primary site of the  origin and history of the Florentine Republic  and remains today the political focus of the city.

Besides the famous Palazzo Vecchio, you will come across  a copy of Michelangelo’s David statue  (the original is in the Galleria dell’Accademia), the  Loggia dei Lanzi  (an open-air sculpture gallery), and the  Uffizi Gallery .

You end your first day in Florence with the Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi), a  renowned art museum  and one of the  most famous museums in the world  for its outstanding collections of ancient sculptures and paintings and unique masterpieces by  great Italian artists  such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

It is a  must-see attraction  for anyone visiting Florence, whether you are into art or not. So plan your visit in advance to avoid the long queue. 

I recommend spending at least 2 hours at Uffizi Gallery to have enough time to see the main artworks and masterpieces without rushing.

Day 2 – San Marco & San Lorenzo

1- discover piazza san marco.

You will start your second day in Florence with another iconic square, Piazza San Marco, dominated by the  17th-century facade of the San Marco Church .

This charming square is located in the northern part of the city, a short walk from the train station, the Duomo and  next to the Accademia Gallery , where you will find the marble statue of David by Michelangelo.

If you have time, take a short detour and  explore the interior of the church .

2- Visit San Marco Museum

On your wander around Piazza San Marco, stop by the Museo Nazionale di San Marco, an  art museum housed in a restored medieval Dominican convent . 

This former monastery, founded in the 13th century, is  worth the visit for its architecture  and is home to superb frescoes and paintings. One of its highlights is the  Annunciation fresco  at the top of the staircase leading to the dormitories – and the gorgeous colours and  artworks by   Beata Angelico .

BOOK YOUR ENTRANCE

3- Tour the Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell’Accademia)

Not far from Piazza San Marco, you will also find the Accademia Gallery, also known as the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, a stunning  art museum home to Michelangelo’s statue of David  and other sculptures from the artist.

Besides the magnificent giant marble sculptures, you will come across  several halls within the gallery  offering artworks by great Italian artists and an extensive collection of paintings by Florentine artists.

I recommend  booking a guided tour in advance  to immerse yourself in the captivating history of Italy and learn more about the Renaissance and the Medici family!

4- Eat at Mercato Centrale

For lunch, head to Mercato Centrale (San Lorenzo Market), a  large market hall  where you will find everything you need, from a delicious Tuscan meal to local ingredients to cook yourself or a souvenir to bring home.

Start your visit by  exploring the outdoor section  of the market, which runs along the streets and where you will find items such as pottery, clothing, books and leather goods.

Finally,  step inside the magnificent hall  designed in 1874 by Giovanni Mengoni to discover food stalls of every kind and treat yourself to tasty Italian cuisine.

5- Explore Palazzo Medici Riccardi

You continue strolling around Florence with the Palazzo Medici, also called Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the  Renaissance home of the powerful Medici family .

The palace is well-known for its  Cappella dei Magi , a private chapel decorated with frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli, an artistic treasure.

And if the building has experienced transformations over the last centuries,  parts of this splendid residence remain intact  and are worth the detour.

6- See the Basilica di San Lorenzo

In the same area, you will come across the Basilica di San Lorenzo, one of the  largest and oldest churches of Florence  and the  burial place  of all the principal members of the Medici family.

This church is a great place to discover  influential works of art  and impressive architecture, and it is also part of the  San Lorenzo complex , which includes the Laurentian Library and the Medici Chapel. 

BOOK YOUR ENTRANCE TO THE MEDICI CHAPEL

Your last stop of the day will be the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, one of the most  important Gothic churches  in Tuscany.

Marvel at its stunning exterior and  step through its doors to experience remarkable works of art  by some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance era, including the  Trinità  by   Masaccio, the frescoes by Ghirlandaio in the Tornabuoni Chapel and the  Crucifix  by   Giotto.

The perfect place to end this immersive day in Italian history!

1- Explore the Basilica of Santa Croce

Your third and last day in Florence begins at the Basilica of Santa Croce, an impressive church known for its  funerary monuments  of famous Florentines, the  burial place  of renowned artists such as Michelangelo and its  Pazzi chapel .

Not only the exterior architecture is stunning, but there is also an  immense artistic richness  inside the basilica – worth the visit! 

Plus, do not forget to stop by the  Renaissance masterpiece of the Palazzi Chapel  and marvel at the work of art by the same builder of the Duomo: Filippo Brunelleschi. 

2- Walk across Ponte Vecchio

Get ready to cross the water! Head to Ponte Vecchio, a  medieval stone arch bridge   over the Arno River . It is the only bridge in Florence not destroyed during World War II and is renowned for its shops built along it. 

The shops on the bridge have been there since the 13th century, but they were initially all types of stores. In 1593, it was decreed that  only goldsmiths and jewellers would be allowed  to improve art and wealth – I thought it odd when I crossed the bridge, but now I understand why!

It is a beautiful bridge to ramble on and admire. And for a better view,  walk along the river banks to one of the adjacent bridges . 

3- Stroll through Oltrarno

Once across the river, take some time to stroll through Oltrarno, a  charming neighbourhood  full of historical sites, extensive gardens, artistic traditions and some of the best views in Florence.

Below are some of the  best things to do and see  in this lovely area.

4- Visit the Brancacci Chapel

You will find the Brancacci Chapel  in the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine , most of which was destroyed in a fire in 1771.

Considered a miracle that the Chapel survived this intense event, it is sometimes referred to as the  Sistine Chapel of the early Renaissance  for its painting cycle, among the most famous and influential of the time.

You can access the Chapel by passing through the cloister. Once inside, take the time to  admire remarkable frescoes .

5- Tour Palazzo Pitti

The Palazzo Pitti is a Renaissance palace and a  large complex of outstanding galleries and museums  housing significant collections of paintings, sculptures and works of art. 

The original palace was built for the Pitti family in 1457, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Today, it hosts  an impressive collection of art , including works gathered by the Medici family.

Here are  the museums you will find inside : the Palatine Gallery and the Royal Apartments, the Modern Art Gallery, the Costumes Gallery, the Silver Museum and the Porcelain Museum.

So plan your visit in advance and book your ticket online to make the most of your time.

6- Relax at the Boboli Gardens

Behind Palazzo Pitti, you will find the stunning Boboli Gardens, a historical park opened to the public in 1766, which stands as a  beautiful open-air museum . 

This large green area houses  centuries-old oak trees, a small lake, marble sculptures, grottoes and fountains . It is the perfect place to relax in summer or to enjoy the flowers blooming in the spring.

It is also the ideal place for families with children, as you will come across the fascinating  Grotta del Buontalenti , an artificial cave filled with fake stalactites and stalagmites.

No, there is an entrance fee (11€) to access the Boboli Gardens from Palazzo Pitti and Forte di Belvedere or Porta Romana.

To end your perfect day and 3-day getaway in Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo to  enjoy a peaceful sunset over the city .

Full of replicas of Michelangelo statues, you will find this square  on a hill on the south bank of the Arno River . Day or night, it offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Florence and its  iconic landmarks , including the Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery and Santa Maria del Fiore.

It is a  great place to relax , take unforgettable photos and watch the sun slowly set on the horizon. 

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Create your dream city break & live a unique Tuscan experience.

How to get to Florence

The best way to get to Florence is by plane . The city has an international airport (Amerigo Vespucci) connected to the main European cities. If you cannot find direct flights, check out Pisa International Airport, which is only 50km away.

The other option is to reach this beautiful Italian city by train . Florence benefits from a high-speed railway hub with trains departing regularly and linking to the entire of Italy – and Europe.

How to get around Florence

You have several options for getting around the capital of Tuscany.

The best way to travel around Florence is on foot . The city is compact, and its main attractions are within walking distance of each other, so you can easily explore them on foot, even on a short day trip or weekend getaway. Plus, it is the ideal way to see the best sights whilst exercising!

Walking will allow you to soak up its wonderful cultural atmosphere and find hidden gems you might otherwise miss.

The second option to get around Florence is by bike . It can be a fun experience and a fantastic way to travel around the city faster whilst reducing your carbon footprint!

Finally, if you are tired or the destination you want to reach is too far,  you can use public transport.  Florence has a reliable and efficient bus (and tram) system that is fast and affordable. 

My experience – I visited Florence as part of a  road trip through Tuscany . I had a car and parked it near the Arcipressi tram stop, which then took me about 30 minutes to reach the centre with the tram. Finding free parking is impossible, so plan accordingly. Once in the centre, I walked around, which was easy and quick. 

Firenze Card: what you need to know

When researching and planning your 3-day trip to Florence, you might come across the Firenze Card, the  official museum pass  of the city.

The card costs  85€  and is  valid for 72 hours  from the first time you have used it. It allows one  admission to the   major museums and galleries , including the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia and any current exhibitions.

In addition, the card lets you  skip the lines , and there is  no need for reservations  (for most places).

With a large collection of masterpieces and works of art, Florence is the perfect destination for art lovers, so  is buying the Firenze Card worth it?

It depends on  how long you stay in the city  and  which museums you want to visit . Plan ahead, and with this list, work out if the card is a better option for you or if paying for individual admission tickets is more cost-efficient.

BUY YOUR FIRENZE CARD

Where to stay in Florence

Are you looking for the best place to stay in Florence for 3 days? Here is an overview of the top neighbourhoods in the Tuscan capital:

• Duomo : the   best neighbourhood  for first-timers  due to its central location and access to the main attractions, including the iconic Santa Maria del Fiore.
• Santa Maria Novella : the best residential area to stay in Florence  for families  seeking tranquillity with quick access to the city centre. 
• San Lorenzo & San Marco : the best place to stay in Florence to discover museums and churches whilst staying  on a budget . 
• Santo Spirito & Oltrarno : if  bohemian and local vibes  are what you love, look no further than this green and less touristy area.

Best time to visit Florence

The best time to visit Florence is in  spring (April-May)  and  autumn (September-October)  when the weather is sunny and warm, but the city is not overcrowded. 

I visited Florence at the end of March, and it was lovely! The weather was sunny each day, with temperatures around 20 degrees, and the tourist spots were not too busy.

I would avoid visiting in the summer,  as it can become hot, expensive and crowded – not the best way to enjoy this beautiful city. 

Winter is another option  if you would like to avoid the crowds but be ready for the cold weather. Also, some places may be closed, and there might not be as many open accommodations, so check and book ahead of time. 

Top day trips from Florence

Sustainable travel in florence.

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

READ MORE: Sustainable Travel Guide to Rome, Italy

Being a responsible traveller in Florence is possible! Here are some sustainable tips for reducing your carbon footprint:

• Book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green holiday. 
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.
• Walk as much as possible . Florence is a compact city easily accessible on foot, and you will not produce any emissions. And if walking is too tiring, use the bike! The city is ideal for cycling around at your own pace.
• Eat at local restaurants  that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and try to learn a few Italian words.

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Florence travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your city trip to Florence stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Florence. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Florence is easy and is a great way to explore the Tuscan countryside freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Florence is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

3 days in Florence, Italy – FAQ

Yes, 3 days are enough to discover Florence and enjoy its top sights and attractions. It will allow you to explore its fascinating museums and soak up the local culture – without rushing!

Yes, visiting Florence is worth it! The city is an incredible place to explore, even for a short weekend. You will learn a lot about Italian history and culture whilst having a wonderful relaxing time.

Yes, Florence is safe for solo travellers. The locals are welcoming, and most speak English. You will also find plenty of affordable guesthouses where you can meet new people.

Yes, Florence is a walkable city. The Tuscan capital is compact, and its main attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it an ideal place to explore on foot.

The best months to visit Florence are April-May and September-October. You will enjoy lovely sunny weather without too high temperatures. These months also benefit from more affordable prices and fewer crowds.

And you, have you ever visited Florence or would you like to go one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Florence   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Florence

This little city, tucked amid the Tuscan hills, casts a long shadow through history. The wellspring of the Renaissance,  Firenze  (or Florence) sheltered the powerful Medici family and inspired artists like Michelangelo (David )  and Brunelleschi (the  Duomo ). If it weren't for the fashionable Italians and chic shops lining   Via Tornabuoni, you might think you had traveled back in time to the 14th century. But Renaissance art is not the only reason to come: You also visit Florence for its gorgeous sunsets, its Italian cooking and its romantic charm. Make the most of your time in the city by letting a local show you around on one of Florence's best tours .

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Florence Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Florence is between May and September when warm weather ushers in art festivals, open-air dining and the kind of Italian sunshine that inspired the Renaissance painters. Unfortunately, it also brings sweltering weather, tourist swarms and high hotel rates. If you visit in late fall or winter, you'll enjoy lower room rates and much shorter lines at the  Uffizi . But the meteorological conditions won't be as hospitable, with low temperatures dropping into the mid-30s Fahrenheit.

Weather in Florence

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Say no to knockoffs In Florence, it's illegal to buy knockoff designer bags. If the authorities catch you purchasing a fake item, you can be fined thousands of dollars.

Reserve ahead The lines outside the  Uffizi  and the  Galleria dell'Accademia  are almost always tortuously long. Spend a few extra euro, and make your museum reservation in advance or sign up for a tour to skip the bulk of the line.

Eat late Do as the Italians do and eat late – lunch at about 1:30 or 2 p.m. and dinner around 9 p.m.

How to Save Money in Florence

Book a hotel on the outskirts  For a somewhat more authentic (not to mention, cost-efficient) experience, book a hotel on the outskirts. You'll get to wake up to the glory of the Tuscan hills, and you're simply a quick train ride from Renaissance central.

Consider the Firenzecard  This card , which costs 85 euros (or about $95) and has 72 hours of validity, grants you admission into several of the city's top attractions , including the Uffizi and Galleria dell'Accademia, for one price.

Dine smart  Stay away from the tourist attractions when you're hungry – restaurants are generally overpriced here. In and around Mercato Centrale Firenze is a good place to find cheaper Italian food.

Culture & Customs

The idea of  la bella figura  is one that is extremely important in Italian culture. Literally translated as "the beautiful figure," la bella figura covers everything from a person's dress to his or her actions and manners – to Italians, all of life should be beautiful.

Picking up a few Italian phrases is helpful and even attempting the language will win you points with Italians, who are usually more than willing to help if they see you trying. In any kind of store or restaurant, it is appropriate to greet and say goodbye to employees even if you do not purchase anything. A  buongiorno  on your way in and an  arrivederci  on your way out should cover it.  Ciao  is also acceptable but is less formal. Like in America, please ( per favore ) and thank you ( grazie ) will go a long way.

Many establishments – restaurants, grocery stores and tourist attractions – close on Sundays. And although Florence attractions tend to open at a normal hour, many will take a midday  siesta after the lunch hour. And some Florence attractions are closed an additional day a week (besides Sunday), so research attractions' hours before making your itinerary.

In comparison to the United States, Italians have a less strict sense of personal space. Do not be surprised if they go further than a handshake at first meetings. Cheek-to-cheek and mouth-to-cheek kisses are not unusual. Follow their lead and note: Reciprocation is  bella figura ; to pull away would be rude. Speaking of rude, you should avoid pointing with your index finger, as most Italians point using all four fingers. And never point at something with just your index and pinky together; it's considered vulgar.

Finally, Italy's official currency is the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to  check what the current exchange rate is  before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.

What to Eat

Florence is known not only for its famous art, but also for its simple yet delicious cuisine, as well as its wine from neighboring towns in  Tuscany . While restaurants tend to be overpriced, you can do as the Italians do and head to Mercato Centrale Firenze for fresh produce, bread, cheese and meat and create your own meal. Several of the top tours in Florence can also help you navigate the market and learn how to cook like an Italian. If you'd rather eat out, recent travelers praised the delectable Italian food and warm ambiance of Pitti Gola e Cantina and the Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco , near the Boboli Gardens . For a romantic dinner, make a reservation at Ristorante La Giostra , an intimate restaurant known for its gourmet cuisine, extensive wine list (bottles fill every nook and cranny of the restaurant) and as being the former resting place of the Salvemini Square carousel.

Tuscan cuisine is all about simplicity. Hearty pastas flavored only with a few ingredients are still somehow rich and multi-faceted. Fish and meats are also well-represented in the Tuscan repertoire. Like most of the Mediterranean, olive oil is an important ingredient in almost every dish.

Florence is also filled with a multitude of gelato stands. The pistachio flavor is the key to differentiating between the good ones from the not-so-great ones (the darker the color, the better). You'll find authentic  gelaterias  with pistachio gelato around the Piazza di Santa Croce and in Oltrarno.

While in Florence, your greatest safety concern will be pickpockets. The Santa Maria Novella train station tends to see a lot of pickpocket action, as do the city's buses. Exercising caution and keeping an eye on your purse or wallet will help keep pickpockets at bay. Other than pickpockets, there are several other scams to be wary of when walking around Florence, especially around heavily-trafficked areas, such as the Duomo. People may approach you and offer to give you an item (such as a bracelet or a small trinket). They may force it in your hand or around your wrist and then ask you for payment. If anyone approaches you offering a "free" gift, politely (but firmly) move on.

Getting Around Florence

The best way to get around Florence is by foot. In fact, you can walk from one end of the city to the other in about 30 minutes, passing many recognizable sites along the way. Hopping aboard an ATAF bus is another option. To get into the city, many travelers fly into Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) in Pisa, making a pit stop at its Leaning Tower before taking the train to the main station, Stazione di Firenze Santa Maria Novella. You can also fly into the small Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) in Florence and take a bus or taxi to the city center. Renting a car is not recommended because skinny, one-way streets make driving a nightmare and many areas are relegated pedestrians or authorized traffic only.

Entry & Exit Requirements

You'll need a valid passport with at least two blank pages to travel to Italy from the United States. In Italy, U.S. citizens have to have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay, but you can stay in Italy for up to 90 days without a visa. Those who wish to stay for a longer period should contact the Italian Embassy or a Consulate. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's  website .

The Duomo is easily recognized by its massive red dome.

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27 Florence Tips: DON’T Make These Mistakes When Visiting Florence, Italy

From when to visit, and how to avoid crowds, to the one thing you must do when eating out, don't miss these essential florence tips.

So, you’ve decided it’s time to turn that Florence travel fantasy into an actual adventure. Feeling a bit lost with all the planning? Worry not! These Florence tips will help you experience the best this beautiful Italian city has to offer.

Florence is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most iconic cities, a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces, stunning architecture and rich history. But with so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, particularly if you’re a first-time visitor. When is the best time to visit Florence? How many days do you need to explore? And what about free things to do in Florence? These are all legitimate questions when embarking on a new adventure, we’ve all been there!

So, here are some practical Florence travel tips that will help you simplify the planning process and ensure you get the most out of your trip. They cover all the essentials and some things you may not have considered but need to know.

When is the best time to visit Florence?

For more, check out my guide to the best time to visit Italy throughout the year.

How many days should you stay in Florence?

If you only have one day in Florence, be sure to plan your itinerary, book tickets for the main attractions in advance, and arrive well-energized. Also, keep in mind that Sundays and Mondays may not be the best days to sightsee, as many places may be closed including the all-important Duomo.

Where to stay in Florence

Terrazza sul Duomo B&B – Terrace

If you’re only in town for a quick tour, it’s best to stick to central accommodations to minimize your commute time. The historical center is a no-brainer if you’re looking to cram in all the museums and monuments the city has to offer. And bonus – it’s super close to the train station. But if you’re planning a longer stay in Florence and want to immerse yourself in the local culture, consider the charming Oltrarno neighborhood south of the river, brimming with quaint artisan shops. Alternatively, sacrifice some convenience for romance and opt for a room with a view in the districts of San Niccolò or San Miniato al Monte. No matter which neighbourhood, choosing where to stay in Florence is actually fairly easy since the city offers plenty of beautiful B&Bs and boutique hotels tucked away in historic buildings as well as lovely rental apartments. Just make sure to book early, especially if you’re visiting during peak season – you don’t want to miss out on the best deals.

Terrazza sul Duomo B&B – Bedroom

How to get to Florence

Santa Maria Novella Train Station

Now that you know when to go and where to stay , let’s take a look at how to get to Florence.

First off, traveling by train is a breeze with high-speed options that connect Florence to popular tourist destinations like Rome, Milan, and Venice. Plus, the Santa Maria Novella train station is within walking distance of the historical center.

You can also fly directly into Florence Airport, where trams and shuttle buses conveniently connect the airport to the Santa Maria Novella station. And if you’re flying into Pisa Airport, you’re only an hour away from Florence by bus.

Finally, although driving might seem like a tempting option, navigating the city’s restricted traffic areas can be rather challenging. The historical center is closely monitored by a network of video cameras, and parking can be a hassle. So it might be best to leave the driving to the locals and opt for other modes of transportation – your stress levels will thank you.

Impress the locals with some basic Italian

Communicating with locals in their native language can make all the difference between a standard trip and an authentic cultural experience. While Florentines are well-versed in welcoming visitors from all corners of the globe and are proficient in English to some extent, taking the time to learn some words and key phrases will undoubtedly enhance your trip. After all, the beauty of languages is that they allow us to connect with others on a deeper level, so by speaking even a few words of Italian, you’ll demonstrate your genuine appreciation for the local community and its people, and that, in turn, will lead to a more positive and welcoming response. So, make sure to pack a few essential Italian phrases in your Florence travel toolkit. Download my free guide to basic Italian phrases here .

Read a bit about the city’s history before your trip

Cosimo I de’ Medici (Bargello Museum)

Similarly, knowing a little about the history of Florence and its grand characters will help you contextualize your experience, especially if you are not planning on joining a guided tour. Most of the art you’ll see during your trips was commissioned by the Medici family, but did you know that they weren’t actually born into nobility and still managed to become one of the most influential dynasties of all time? Or that Florence was the capital of Italy before Rome took the crown in 1871? Armed with a little bit of background knowledge, you will gain a deeper appreciation for Florence’s unique character and its people, which will make your visit all the more memorable. Alternatively, join this amazing Florence walking.

Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Exploring Florence on foot is the way to go

Book a table for dinner

Get up early to avoid the crowds

There’s no magic formula to avoid large crowds and tour groups in Florence. It’s really just a matter of getting up early and beating them on timing. So, set your alarm early, grab a cup of coffee, and hit the streets before the city fully awakens. Sunrise hours provide the perfect opportunity to appreciate its famous sights, like the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge, in all their glory without elbowing your way through the crowds. You’ll be amazed at the charming details and hidden gems you’ll discover when you have the city all to yourself. Plus, don’t forget your camera – sunrise provides the perfect lighting for capturing beautiful, crowd-free photos.

Pre-book tickets to major museums

Florence is home to some of the most visited museums in the world, and simply turning up without prior arrangements can easily result in spending several hours standing in line. Not to mention that these museums often have limited capacity, and once they reach their daily limit, no more visitors are allowed in. But there’s a solution: book your museum tickets in advance! Not only will this guarantee your entry, but you’ll also be able to choose the perfect time for your visit without any delays. Sure, it may cost a little extra, but just picture yourself with your skip-the-line ticket to the Uffizi or this Accademia Gallery ticket in hand, confidently strolling past the crowds and entering in a matter of minutes – priceless! Just remember that when booking advance tickets online, you must go to the ticket desk to collect the actual tickets before accessing the museum.

Consider buying a museum pass

Great Hall of the Five Hundred (Palazzo Vecchio)

Planning to explore a lot of attractions during your stay in Florence? Be prepared for the final bill to add up quickly. However, there’s a clever money-saving solution: the Florence Museum Pass . This handy card provides access to some 58 sites across the city, including renowned landmarks like the Uffizi, Pitti Palace, and the museum of Palazzo Vecchio. The pass costs €85 for 72 hours and offers free entry for children under 18 who are part of the cardholder’s immediate family. Before making your purchase, take the time to calculate the combined cost of all the attractions you hope to visit. Depending on your itinerary, it may be more cost-effective to opt for the pass rather than pay for individual tickets.

Palazzo Vecchio courtyard

Take a walking tour

Understanding how to visit Florence’s Duomo complex

• The Ghiberti Pass includes access to the Baptistery, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and Santa Reparata. It is the perfect choice for those who want to soak up the rich history and culture of the complex without having to climb to the top of the dome or the bell tower.
• The Giotto Pass gives access to all of the attractions included in the Ghiberti Pass, plus the chance to climb Giotto’s Bell Tower, perfect for those seeking some stunning panoramic views.
• The Brunelleschi Pass is for those who want to explore all the sites, including the climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s dome.

Bonus tip: What most people don’t know is that you can also visit the private terraces of the Duomo rooftop (before heading to the top of the dome), but only by joining a private skywalk guided tour here.

Embrace the unavoidable truth: you won’t see everything at the Uffizi

Don’t forget that museums are free on the first Sunday of every month

Giardino di Boboli (Palazzo Pitti)

Galleria dell’Accademia – Michelangelo’s David

Like in any other Italian city, Florence’s state-run museums and cultural sites offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month. This fantastic initiative, known as Domenica al Museo (Sunday at the museum), was launched by the Italian government in 2014 to encourage the public to immerse themselves in art and culture. And who doesn’t love saving a few bucks while doing so? On this day, you can explore top attractions like the Uffizi, Accademia Gallery, Pitti Palace, and Medici Chapels, among others (the complete list of participating locations can be found on the government website ). Just be aware that lines can get quite long, so plan to arrive early to make the most of your day.

Cappelle Medicee

New Sacristy (Cappelle Medicee)

Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path

English Cemetery

While Florence is one of the most touristed cities in the world, it’s also packed with secret spots and hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. So, after you’ve checked all of the major attractions off your bucket list, make sure to set aside some time to explore Florence off the beaten path. You could visit the studio of a local street artist or go to the Galileo Museum, where the scientist’s relics are displayed like those of a saint. You could also see the first Last Supper painted by a woman at the Santa Maria Novella complex, or pay your respects at Shakespeare’s last descendants’ graves in the English Cemetery. As you can see, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a passionate photographer, or a history buff, there’s no shortage of unique things to do in Florence !

Galileo Museum

Embrace the city’s wine culture

Make time for watching the sunset 

Venture to the other side of the river

Palazzo Pitti

While many tend to stick around the northern side of the Arno, where most of the best things to do in Florence are located, there’s a whole part of Florence to discover on the other side of the river. So, cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge and venture through the Oltrarno, as the southern side of the river is called. There, you’ll find three neighborhoods – Santo Spirito, San Frediano, and San Niccolò – each with its own unique character and distinctive local feel. You’ll find an abundance of cute cafés, delicious restaurants, and pretty churches worth exploring, as well as the famous Pitti Palace with its beautiful Bobbli Gardens. And if you’re planning to bring home some authentic Italian souvenirs, you’re in luck – the Oltrarno is home to countless artisans who have made this area their creative hub.

Take your sips to new heights

Skip Piazzale Michelangelo and head to San Miniato al Monte instead

View from San Miniato al Monte

Overlooking the city from up the hill in the Oltrarno district, Piazzale Michelangelo is undoubtedly one of Florence’s go-to spots for panoramic views. But with its postcard-perfect views and a towering replica of Michelangelo’s David, this iconic square can get really crowded. However, if you venture slightly further up, a little gem awaits. The church of San Miniato al Monte, is one of the finest Romanesque churches in the region. Less crowded but no less spectacular, this viewing spot offers beautiful views over the city. And if you plan to visit around 6 pm, you’ll be treated to the beautiful Gregorian chants performed by the resident monks, making your experience all the more fascinating.

Indulge in some shopping, but know where to go

Scuola del Cuoio (Leather School)

As you plan your trip to Florence, it’s likely you’re eagerly anticipating the beautiful sights, the delicious food, and, naturally, some essential shopping. But if you’re going to shop in Florence, you’ll want to do it right to avoid wasting money on overpriced tourist traps. One of the city’s most beloved shopping experiences is the hunt for the perfect leather product.

Florence is renowned for its high-quality leather goods, and for a good reason. To ensure you’re getting the real deal, head straight to one of the city’s top spots, Scuola del Cuoio , where they also organize courses and workshops to create your very own one-of-a-kind piece.

Acqua della Regina

If you’re looking for something truly unique, head to the Oltrarno district, a treasure trove of independent boutiques and workshops, each offering pieces that have a story to tell. And for the ultimate souvenir, make your way to Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella and buy a bottle of Acqua della Regina (Queen’s Water) , a fragrance specially designed for Caterina de’ Medici in the 16th century.

Go out in the evening!

Florentine steak

You might think that with so many stunning sights to see during the day, there are not many things to do in Florence at night. But nighttime brings a unique charm that’s worth exploring. You can treat yourself to a special night of food and entertainment at Teatro del Sale or take a tour of Tuscan cuisine that includes wine tasting and Fiorentina steak , two of the region’s signature specialties. This time of the day is also perfect for strolling through the historic city center with a delicious gelato and taking in the details you may have missed during the hustle and bustle of the day.

There’s no denying that seeing the city’s landmarks under the moonlight adds a new dimension to their beauty. Plus, for a splurge, a night photo tour of Florence with a local photographer promises stunning shots to bring home. Finally, if you need an excuse to get someone to hold your hand, consider joining this top-rated Mysteries and Legends tour of Florence and embark on an adventure into the city’s mysteries!

Taking a cooking class is the perfect activity for a rainy day

While the city’s renowned museums provide a cozy shelter from bad weather, nothing beats the joy of cooking to lift your spirits. You can immerse yourself in Tuscan cuisine by spending quality time with a local chef, who can not only teach you the art of Italian cooking but also share some insider tips on the best restaurants in town. There are some great cooking classes in Florence to choose from, ranging from pasta-making workshops with dinner and wine-tasting to pizza and gelato-making lessons . Not only will you return home with newfound culinary skills, but you’ll also be able to host fantastic Italy-inspired parties. Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Florence when it rains.

Keep an eye out for the secret urban art

Discover Tuscany beyond Florence

San Gimignano

One of the top travel tips for Florence is to venture beyond the city limits at least once, provided you have enough time and budget for it. From quaint villages to fabulous wineries and UNESCO treasures, there’s a whole load of Tuscany to explore within a short distance from the city. The region’s excellent road and train network makes day trips from Florence easy.

If you’re not feeling up to planning, there are some great guided tours available. While many choose Pisa and Lucca  for a side trip from Florence, there are plenty of other options to consider, such as the famous vineyards of Chianti , the beautiful Siena and San Gimignano , the Val d’Orcia (where those stunning views you’ve seen in pictures come to life), and the Cinque Terre (Liguria’s iconic pastel-colored villages) or this tour of both the Cinque Terre and Portovenere .

You can also opt for a day trip from Florence that covers different locations, like this excellent Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and winery lunch tour.

Don’t miss my guide to the BEST things to do in San Gimignano

Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa

Leaning Power of Pisa

It doesn’t have to be expensive

Loggia dei Lanzi

Florence is often seen as a high-end destination, but honestly, the idea that you have to shell out big bucks to enjoy all that the city has to offer is a myth. Sure, accommodation prices might not be the lowest and the museums can be a bit pricey. Still, for budget-conscious travelers there’s a surprising number of free things to do in Florence . Take, for instance, Loggia dei Lazi, the breathtaking sculpture gallery in Piazza della Signoria. This cultural gem won’t cost you a cent. Plus, there are numerous beautiful churches that welcome visitors free of charge. And let’s not forget about the stunning gardens that dot the city. You can easily while away an afternoon taking in the sights and smells of these natural wonders without spending a single euro. So go ahead and book your trip, knowing there are also plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the charm of Florence without breaking the bank.

Let go of FOMO

Don’t miss my guide to the TOP Things to do in Florence

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Don’t miss these guides to Florence and Tuscany

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20+ Fabulous Free Things to do in Florence (Cool Markets, Top Museums, & Walking Tours)

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Of the cities that have enjoyed moments as true cultural capitals of the world, Florence is one of the most surprising. A modest trading center, and one devastated by the plague in 1348, Florence emerged late in the 14 th century as the “Athens of the Middle Ages.” This was due, in large part, to the ruling Medici family embracing their role of patrons to Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Machiavelli, and other artists and writers.

The glories of the Renaissance are found everywhere you look. The Palazzo Vecchio sits beside the Piazza della Signoria, the symbolic heart of Florence, while less than five minutes on foot will bring you to the Uffizi Gallery, a treasury of many of the most famous paintings of the Renaissance. Cross the Arno River over the Ponte Vecchio and you’ll soon arrive to the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens . This city is more than the sum of its parts. When circumstances led to Milan, Rome, and other Italian cities surpassing Florence in population and commercial importance, the historic heart of Florence remained largely intact. Only a few modern buildings can be found in the city center, much of the medieval streetscape remains, and here you can walk in the footsteps of some of Western civilization’s greatest minds.

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Photo Courtesy of Atibordee Kongprepan

When’s the best time to go to Florence?

Florence at the height of summer is often hot and almost always crowded—late spring and early fall are preferable if possible. While Florence is a year-round destination, if you are combining your trip there with visits to wineries and smaller towns in Tuscany, be aware that some businesses do close in the winter.

How to get around Florence

There are no direct flights from the United States to Florence, but it is possible to connect to it through European hubs. From the airport, it is about 20 minutes by taxi or bus to the city center. If you are combining your trip to Florence with another stop in Italy, Milan, Rome, and Venice are all two hours or less from the city by train. The main station is in Santa Maria Novella, not far from the historic heart of Florence.

Historic Florence is compact and given that the narrow streets are often congested, it is often easier to explore on foot. (While there is a good bus network, it really only makes sense to use it if you are traveling beyond the city center.) Taxis are safe and because the distances are short, you are unlikely to rack up a big fare. Note, however, that you can’t hail cabs on the street and will need to find the closest taxi stand.

Can’t miss things to do in Florence

The Uffizi Gallery ranks alongside the Louvre and the Hermitage as one of the world’s great museums, though its collection is more focused—specifically on Italian art from the 14 th to 17 th centuries. The entire arc of Renaissance art can be traced through its canvases, with masterpieces by Botticelli, da Vinci, Fra Filippo Lippi, and many others.

The Galleria dell’Accademia , on the other hand, is a must-stop thanks to one masterpiece: Michelangelo’s David.

Florence’s cultural highlights include a number of buildings that are iconic landmarks. Foremost among them is the cathedral, or Duomo , which includes contributions from three towering figures: Brunelleschi (the dome and baptistery), Giotto (the campanile), and Vasari (The Last Judgment fresco). Students of garden design, and anyone who wants to simply smell the flowers, should explore the Boboli Gardens .

Take a break from all the headiness with a visit to the Mercato Centrale , or San Lorenzo Market. On the ground floor you can shop for sun-dried tomatoes, olive oils, and other culinary gifts. In the food hall upstairs, you can savor some of the flavors of Tuscan cuisine.

Delve even deeper into Florentine culture: sign up for a cooking class, attend a musical event, conduct your own street-food survey. Or take a fresco-painting workshop from our partner, Context Tours, where you’ll learn the ropes of this Renaissance painting technique from a working artist in his studio.

Food and drink to try in Florence

Tuscan cuisine is traditionally simple and hearty food, noted for its bean and vegetable soups and non-fussy pasta dishes. Florence’s most famous dish, bistecca alla Fiorentina , a thickly cut t-bone steak, can be found on many menus. If you have a sweet tooth, gelato was (at least according to some) invented in Florence.

Culture in Florence

Florence’s high culture is the reason to visit the city for many—its museums are home to many masterpieces of Renaissance Italy while some of its churches and palaces are true architectural wonders. The lines at the Uffizi Gallery can be long and purchasing advance tickets is highly recommended. While you will want to see Florence’s most famous highlights, its smaller institutions can offer a respite from the crowds: the Bargello houses important works by sculptor Donatello while the Horne Museum displays the collection of its 19 th -century British founder, an avid collector of Renaissance art.

Practical Information

As with other countries in the Schengen Area of Europe, Americans can stay for up to 90 days in Italy without a visa.

Electricity is 220 volts, in common with the rest of Europe. While you will notice three holes in outlets, the middle one is for a grounding prong. An adapter with two round prongs is all you need to use most U.S. devices. If your U.S. device has three pins or prongs, you should use an adapter that also has the third, middle prong.

There are no special health requirements or immunizations required to travel to Italy.

Guide Editor

Gillian Longworth McGuire Nicky Swallow

Visit Florence Italy - Firenze Travel Guide

N°1 florence travel guide - tips for sightseeing, tourism in firenze city.

All sighstseeing, tourist attractions information and tips for your city break in Florence such as visiting the sights and highlights. What to visit in Firenze Italy? Your trip starts on FlorenceTips.com

Relive the Renaissance during a city break to Florence

Florence, or Firenze , is the capital of the famous Italian region of Tuscany . It is one of the most visited cities in Italy , attracting approximately ten million tourists every year. This online Florence travel guide will inform you about all the Attractions in the Tuscan capital and provide you with some useful tips to make a visit to the city as successful as possible. For example, it is advisable to book and reserve your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. When you take this information and tips to yourself, you are assured of a successful city trip to the city of the Renaissance, Florence !

The foundation of Firenze

Florence city was founded in the year 59 BC by Emperor Julius Caesar. He named the Roman settlement Florentia and used the area as a large Roman army camp. Something you can still see in the street map of Firenze even now. Florentia was especially important, because it was on the Arno River and as a result a fertile valley for the Roman troops.

A lively period in the Middle Ages

After the time of the Romans, Florence fell into several hands, as in the sixth century in the hands of the Longobards, a Germanic people. After this, Florence became a separate city-state and in the thirteenth century Florence took a leading position thanks to a flourishing trade in textiles and wool, supported by the Florentine banking system

The period of the Medici in Italy

In the course of time, the power of Florence city, which lay first in the hands of guilds and later of the republic, passed to noble families. The most famous example of this is the Medici family. For three centuries, the Medici ruled Firenze and later much of Tuscany. The Medici were a banking family who helped Florence reach its growth. During the time of the banking family, Florence grew into the intellectual and cultural heart of Europe, where an artistic flourishing took place. Well-known names such as Dante, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Donatello and Petrarca date from this period, which we know as the Renaissance and the reason why we still have Florence on our to do list.

Events in Firenze

During a city break Florence you can attend a number of well-known events. For example, on Easter Sunday, the Florentines have the Scoppio del Carro, detonating a decorated bullock cart in front of the Duomo to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. In addition, on the Sunday after Ascension, there is the Festa del Grillo, where singing crickets are sold in the Parco del Cascine to spread happiness. In May and June there is also the Florence Music Festival, with classical concerts, operas, recitals and ballet performances at various locations in the city. Sports fans can also attend a match of the famous football club Fiorentina or music lovers can attend a concert at the Nelson Mandela Forum.

Tourism in Firenze Italy

There are so many impressive attractions to see in Florence that you could argue that the entire city is a museum and as such is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Below is a brief overview of the most famous tourist attractions that you must see. Many of these sights are within walking distance of each other in the downtown area, but some noteworthy attractions are just outside the city. That is why you can reach many places on foot and for the hard-to-reach places you can take public transport.

The Florentine churches

The most famous landmark in Florence has to be the Duomo or Santa Maria del Fiore. The 115 meter high dome of the Duomo di Firenze and the adjacent Campanile have defined the Florentine skyline for centuries. When visiting the Florence cathedral , don't forget the Baptistery opposite, known for its bronze portals by Lorenzo Ghiberti. The Santa Maria Novella , opposite the train station, is a Gothic church dating back to the fourteenth century. The Santa Maria Novella is known for the Strozzi Chapel, which is inspired by Dantes La Divina Commedia. The Santa Croce is also a Gothic basilica, which can be found in Piazza Santa Croce. The Santa Croce as supposed to surpass the Santa Maria Novella, but is best known for the famous people buried there, such as writer and philosopher Machiavelli.

The palaces in Florence Italy

The Palazzo Vecchio has been Florence's main palace for centuries, functioning as a government building. Today you can visit it as a museum and enter the palace spire for panoramic views of the city. Another attraction worth visiting is the Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, a residential palace of the Medici family, which later housed the Riccardi. Also the impressive Pitti Palace with the accompanying Boboli gardens is a loved attraction.

Uffizi, Accademia and other museums

The Galleria degli Uffizi is the most famous museum in Florence Italy . The art collection goes back to the collection of the Medici. The most famous work of art present is Botticelli's Birth of Venus. The previously mentioned Palazzo Pitti has also become a museum, showcasing everything from clothing to art. The accompanying Boboli gardens are also a museum in itself. Other museums include the National Bargello Museum, the Museum of Galileo Galilei and the Monastery with the San Marco Museum.

Other places to visit in Florence

More tips for visiting Florence Italy: the famous bridge over the River Arno, the Ponte Vecchio , is also one of the most famous sights of the Tuscan capital. This bridge is characterized by the many jewelers, whose shops are build on the bridge. If you cross the Arno, you will soon arrive at a palace with beautiful, large gardens: the Boboli gardens . These gardens are known for the works of art that can be found there, such as the famous Grotta Grande. Also visit the famous squares, such as the Piazza della Signoria , Piazzale Michelangelo and the Piazza della Repubblica .

Best activities and places to visit

• Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi is the most famous museum in Florence, which includes famous works of art by Botticelli and Rubens. Tour the art periods, which stretch from the Middle Ages to the modern era, and let yourself be enchanted by the splendor.

Top 25 Florence attractions

Florence Italy is a great open-air museum for anyone who loves history and culture. The Tuscan city is full of interesting museums, squares, churches, statues and Renaissance art and is more than just the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo or Palazzo Vecchio.

• Top 25 Florence

The Duomo is the landmark that everyone thinks about when thinking about Florence. Dominating the skyline of Florence, it has become a true landmark of the city. Climb Brunelleschi's 115 meter high dome for a beautiful view of the city.

• Accademia Gallery

The Galleria dell’Accademia is an art school, where a large collection of sculptures is collected that served to inspire the students. The most famous statue in the Accademia is Michelangelo's original David.

• Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is Florence's most famous bridge over the river Arno. The bridge is best known for its shops, which are located on the bridge. Blacksmiths, tanners and butchers used to live here, but nowadays you will mainly encounter jewelers here.

• Palazzo Vecchio

For years, the government of Florence took place in the Palazzo Vecchio. Even today, the Firenze city council still resides here. Today, however, the palace has more of a function as a museum, partly because of the famous frescoes that you can admire here.

Traveling to Florence (Italy)

Florence city can be reached in several ways. First, the city has a small airport , Amerigo Vespucci Airport. If you are already in Italy and are taking a return trip to Florence, you can also easily reach the Tuscan capital by train. By train, regional or high speed, you will arrive at Santa Maria Novella, from where you only have to walk a few minutes to get to the historic center.

Best time to travel to Firenze & Tuscany

Florence city, like the rest of Italy, has a Mediterranean climate , which means that in the summer months, in the driest months, the city has a rainfall of less than thirty milliliters. The month with the most rainfall has three times as much rainfall as the driest month. Due to the influence of the Mediterranean, the daytime temperatures in Florence are quite high and less extreme weather conditions occur. The summer months of July and August are often very hot with days averaging thirty degrees Celsius. Many Florence tourist attractions respond to this with good air conditioning, but the Duomo with its narrow stairs, it is better not to climb in direct sunlight. The best time to visit Firenze is therefore in spring or autumn, where you will still have sunny days but without the oppressive heat of the summer months.

Video: Florence Sightseeing

Where is firenze city located in italy.

Firenze is the capital of the Tuscany region of central Italy. The capital Rome is located 273 kilometers south of Florence city. Bologna is 104 kilometers north and Venice is already 256 kilometers away. Milan is even 307 kilometers away.

Best things to do in Florence

Top 25 Florence Attractions

Uffizi Gallery & Tickets

Duomo, the Florence Cathedral

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Home » Europe » Italy » Florence

An Honest Guide to Florence, Italy – From a True Fan of the City

Florence is one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy and for very good reasons: its Renaissance architecture, superlative art, and unwavering devotion to food have all made Florence an international sensation. People travel from all over the globe for a chance to experience Florentine culture, regardless of how much it may cost.

Yes, Florence can be pretty expensive these days, not to mention, very crowded. In the summer, the city is sometimes completely overrun by tourists and there are times where you’ll see more college students than actually Florentines.

BUT Florence is still worth visiting! You just have to know what to do, when to go, and what is really essential to the city.

This Florence travel guide is designed to help you get the most out of your trip and, at the same time, save a buck or two. We’ll cover an array of subjects from lodging to dining to what to see in Florence on any budget. It is my goal to show you a different side of this city and to give the means to really appreciate its splendor.

So let’s not waste time; this is the real way to experience Florence next time you visit!

How Much Does a Trip to Florence Cost? 

Backpacker accommodation in florence, what to do in florence, florence travel guide – a sample itinerary, florence travel guide – extra tips and tricks, eating and drinking in florence – the best food and restaurants, some final thoughts from this florence travel guide….

Visiting Florence on a budget is 100% possible. You just gotta know where to look for the best deals, how to spot a potential rip-off, and how to make your own pasta every now and then. Easy, right?

Florence, like the rest of Italy, can be expensive if you’re reckless with your money. Booking lavish hotel rooms, eating out every night, and buying expensive drinks at the bar will deplete your funds if you’re not careful enough.

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If you plan on visiting Florence on the cheap, you could probably do so for around $40-$60/day.  You will need to be a tough backpacker though. Here are some things to consider:

• Lodging : Lodging in Florence can be pretty expensive, especially when it’s located in the historical center. Even hostels in Florence can be more than than $20/night, at least for the decent ones. Hotels and apartments will obviously be more ($60-$100/night).
• Transportation : You can easily see Florence on foot so don’t worry much about transportation expenses. When you do use the bus, buy from a local tobacco shop instead of the driver – you’ll save a euro doing so.
• Food : If you eat in restaurants near the city center, you will get overcharged. If you stick to the cozy, hidden osteria and trattoria, dishes can be as low as 8-9 euros. Also, groceries and produce are cheap in Italy. 
• Drink : Beer, wine, and cocktails are about 5-8 euros when bought in the touristy neighborhoods of Florence. You can buy booze much cheaper in the local shops.
• Attractions : It’s never cheap to visit the museums in Florence. If you want to see David at the Accademia Gallery or the Birth of Venus at Uffizi, both cost you 20+ euros each.

Average Costs of a Trip to Florence

Here’s a breakdown of individual costs when formulating a daily budget in Florence:

Hostel Dormitory: $20-$30

Basic hotel room for two: $60-$100

AirBnB/temp apartment: $60-$100

Average cost of public transport: $1.50-$2.50

City-Airport transfer: $6.50-$9

Sandwich: $5-$7

Beer at a bar: $4-$6

Coffee: $1.50-$3

Bottle of wine from the market: $6-$8

Dinner for two: $40-$50

Florence Budget Travel Tips

• Buy cheap booze at the shops: Drinking in public is legal in Italy and everyone does it. You’ve never really been to Italy either until you’ve drank a Moretti on some church steps.
• When eating out in Florence: Stick to local osterie (taverns) and trattorie (informal restaurants) where prices are usually more reasonable. Avoid eating in the center of Florence at all costs.
• Find free walking tours in Florence : Or just make your own tour using this Florence travel guide!
• Cook your own food sometimes: Hostels and some apartments come with kitchens; use them. Your own special spaghetti will be way cheaper than that mediocre one in a restaurant. (Just don’t leave the pasta sitting on the table without the sauce; rookie mistake!)
• Buy a Firenze Pass : If you intend on visiting a lot of galleries and museums in Florence, you’re probably better off with one of these. It allows free entry to many of the best museums in Florence and you’ll save more money in the end. Note that you will still have to make reservations for the top sights in Florence, like Bruneleschi’s Dome.
• Stay outside the historical center : It may seem inconvenient walking the extra 5-10 minutes, but it may be worth the extra money saved on hotels in Florence. The city isn’t that big either so you shouldn’t be too far away from the main attractions.
• Take advantage of aperitivo: you can get some really good deals on wine and snacks with these. I myself have been known to make a dinner out of two or three.
• Have a water bottle: Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap.

Why You Should Travel to Florence with a Water Bottle

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Florence is not a big city. Most of the city’s top attractions are located within 15-minutes walk of one another. No matter which neighborhood in Florence you choose to stay in, you’ll never be too far away from the action. 

The central areas of Florence – San Marco, Duomo, and Santa Croce – are where the grand majority of tourists stay. Many of the best things to see in Florence are located in these districts as well. This means that prices will be highest in these areas. 

If you want to stay in Florence on a budget, try looking for accommodation in the outer districts. Santo Spirito, Santa Maria, Annuziato, and Sant’Ambrogio are all more affordable than staying in the centre. 

Hotels in Florence will obviously be the most expensive choice. I don’t much care for hotels but, that being said, there are still some hidd en gems in the city . 

I prefer staying in a local Airbnbs over hotels – they usually have more character and nicer hosts. Just remember to check the terms of the apartment and to see if you have to pay extra city taxes.

The cheapest places to stay in Florence are still hostels. There are several good ones in the city although most are located on the edges of the city center.

If you want to spend even less money, you may find success by staying at one of the campgrounds outside of Florence. Some, like the glamping site at Firenze Camping in Town, are easily accessible thanks to nearby bus lines. Others may be in the middle of nowhere, which means you’ll probably need a car (or be good at hitchhiking).

Refer below for some suggested places to stay in the city. If you need more information, then head over to our Florence accommodation guide for more information!

The Best Places to Stay in Florence

Are you wondering  which is the best part of Florence to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions.

Home to the epic dome at Santa Maria del Fiore, which is the tourist center of the city. Lots of cafes, bars, and restaurants surround this landmark.

A more residential area that is a bit farther away but is also cheaper. Still plenty of activities and restaurants around.

San Spirito/San Frediano

Located on the other side of the Arno River, this neighborhood is full of cool bars and local haunts. Students and locals love to come here and sit in the piazzas.

Santa Croce

A tucked-away area very close to the Duomo but equally as interesting. Packed with activities, bars, and restaurants. Also, closer to the Arno.

Santa Maria Novella

A well-connected part of the city that is close to all of Florence’s main attractions. Busy and bustling.

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1. Find a calcio fiorentino match and brace yourself

I guarantee that you will not see one of these on ANY casual sightseeing tours of Florence. Calcio Fiorentina is the original sport in Florence and is very rough to watch. The game, which is a cross between rugby and football, involves a lot of hard physical contact and there is almost always blood. For a real Florentine experience, try and visit one of these in the summer.

2. Have a sundowner at Piazzale Michelangelo

This is my – and probably a lot of other people’s – favorite way to end their day in Florence. The Piazzale Michelangelo has, unquestionably, the best view in the city as the Duomo is literally smack dab in front of your face. Sitting on the steps and drinking a beer with friends makes the experience truly worthwhile and really puts the icing on your trip.

3. Eat some more at the Mercato di San Lorenzo

The Mercato di San Lorenzo is the largest market in Florence and probably the coolest as well. Inside this cavernous space, you will find all kinds of local products from fresh prosciutto to fruit to leather goods and more. Conveniently, there is a large, modern bar located inside as well; take a break from shopping with a glass of wine whenever. 

4. Get in line early for All’antico Vinaio 

There are people that travel to Florence just for this establishment. The sandwiches at All’antico Vinaio are legendarily delicious. This place is so well-regarded that it was actually voted one of the most reviewed restaurants in the world . So it goes without saying that you’ll need to arrive early if want to eat here. 

5. See everything at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

No Florentine travel guide would be complete without mentioning the all-mighty Doors to Paradise and the cathedral attached to them. The Cathedral of Santa Maria de Fiore hosts probably the most iconic dome in the world and experiencing it is practically a rite of passage for those backpacking in Italy . It would be a tragedy to miss visiting this landmark.

6. Yes, you have to walk across the Ponte Vecchio

Among the most iconic sites in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio ranks up there near the top. It is a symbol of the city, which means that it is very popular and very touristy. Whilst it is a really cool bridge, the crowds here can be horrible and the local shopkeepers can be overly adament.  You should still visit the Ponte Vecchio, but do so once and then move along to other things.

7. Visit the Cappella Brancacci – one of the most underrated attractions in Florence

This chapel isn’t on most people’s must see in Florence, Italy list. Hell, I’m sure most people don’t even know what it is! The Cappella Brancacci is a hidden gem; one of the most underrated and unknown Renaissance masterpieces in the world. It’s half the price of most museums in Florence and attracts a fraction of the crowds. To me, both those qualities are winning. 

8. Have a drink in Santo Spirito 

By day, Spirito Santo is a calm area that is composed of little more than a church and a piazza. By night though, it’s a totally different scene. Santa Spirto is the place where all the locals go to drink late-night and is full of energy at this time. Even if I only have three days in Florence, I always make an effort to go here. 

9. Take a Medici tour

If you really want to understand Florence, then you need to understand its most important family: the Medici. As rulers of Renaissance Florence, the Medici were responsible for many of the city’s greatest achievements, including but not limited to Santa Maria de Fiore and the Palazzo Vecchio. See all the Medici sites in Florence and will become a master of the city yourself.

10. Visit at least one museum (just be careful of the prices)

Some of the most significant art in the Western World is housed in Florence. The Uffizi, Bargello, Palazzo Vecchio, San Marco, and Accademia all have excellent collections and all are worth visiting. But going to all of these institutions will also be expensive, especially for those backpacking in Florence.

I suggest doing some research and choosing one or two museums that you really want to see. For example, I find the Uffizi to be more worth the investment than the Accademia where the Statue of David is found. I figure that if I wanted to see a white dude with a small dick, I’ll just look in the mirror and save twenty euros. 

Editor’s Note: Yes, the author really did write this last part himself and, yes, I don’t think he gives a shit.

Day Trips from Florence 

One of the best parts about visiting Florence is the fact that you’re actually in Tuscany. Though it’s been the center of attention for a while and can seem overrun with wine snobs at times, Tuscany is totally worth the hype. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Italy and is totally worth exploring.

Here a couple of ideas for day trips from Florence :

• Sienna: Former independent republic and everyone’s favorite Tuscan town. Sienna is most famous for its Paleo races in August, which put the Kentucky Derby to shame. If you visit during this time, get ready for a madhouse. You’ll also find plenty of Italian yoga retreats in this part of Italy.
• Pisa : Famous for the Leaning Tower (partake in selfies at your own risk) but Pisa is so much more. The Duomo de Pisa, located literally next to the tower, is way cooler. May favorite panineria in Italy, Il Porci Comodi, is also here. Finally, being a student town, the nightlife ain’t too shabby either. 
• Viareggio : If you’re visiting Florence in February, you HAVE to make a trip to Viareggio to see the local Carnival. The townsfolk make giant, intricately crafted floats for the festival and there is almost always a Donald Trump themed one.
• Val d’Orcia : This is the place that everyone imagines Tuscany to look like. Winding roads, rolling hills, rows of trees; Val d’Orcia is the poster child for the region. Montepulciano is lauded for its brunello wine while Bagni San Filipo as some awesome travertine hot springs.
• San Gimignano : Probably the prettiest village in Tuscany, thanks to its many delicate towers and crumbling medieval fortifications. San Gimignano also has its own local vernaccia grapes soooooo there’s a good excuse to get drunk at the wineries!

Need help deciding between Florence or Venice ? Check out our helpful guide.

Wondering how many days to spend in Florence? Three days should be more than enough! Refer below for our suggested itinerary on how to see this city in a reasonable amount of time.

Day 1: The First Things to See in Florence!

Most people will arrive in Florence around mid-day – either by train or by flight. This means that the mornings will be quick and that you’ll have to hit the ground running to see the top sights in Florence!

On the first day of this Florence travel guide, we’ll visit many important locations. Much of the day will be for wandering, which I believe is one of the best ways to see Florence!

Morning: Check into your accommodation and drop of your bags. Pack a daypack and then head to the nearest cafe for a jolt of energy. Buy a cafe, a snack, and get ready; today is the first of three awesome days in Florence! 

Early-Afternoon: Start off by visiting one of the city’s many museums. There are a lot to choose from and, unless you have a Firenze Pass, I suggest you stick to one or two. The Uffizi and Academmia are good choices – the former has the Birth of Venus and the latter has the Statue of David. Don’t forget to make reservations for these though!

Late-Afternoon: Take a break and grab some Florentine street food. The local favorite is lampredotto – a sandwich stuffed with tripe (it’s better than it sounds.)

Evening: Spend the early-evening wandering amongst Florence’s many piazze . Visiting the Piazza della Signoria is an absolute must do in Florence as you’ll see many of the most iconic locations in the city, like the Palazzo Vecchio and Loggia dei Lanzi. Finish with an aperitivo .

Night: Head to a local Tuscan osteria for dinner. Order something hearty, like a bistecca fiorentina , because you’ll need a fortified stomach for the evening. After dinner, head to Santo Spirito for drinks and the chance to immerse yourself in Florence’s best nightlife!

Day 2: The Best of Florence!

The second of our three days in Florence is focused on one place: the glorious Duomo and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. No trip to Florence is complete without seeing these religious and architectural wonders!

Morning: There are tours of the Duomo in Florence throughout the day. If you’re feeling a little haggard, wake up at your leisure and then head out when ready. Note that on Sundays the church is only open after 15:00.

Early-Afternoon: Spend the whole afternoon exploring the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Gawk at the gilded frescoes in the baptistry; climb to the top of Brunelesci’s Dome (there are over 450 steps!); see former Florentine remains in the crypt; spend as much time as you want here! All of these places are accessible with a Cumulative Ticket.

Late-Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk south towards the Arno River. On the way, be sure to drop by the Fontana del Porcellino, home to the bronze statue of the Porcellino Little Boar). Rub its snout for good luck! Once you reach the river, head across the iconic Ponte Vecchio and window shop along the way – the hawkers will be in full force here. 

Evening: Make for the Giardino delle Rose and Piazzale Michelangelo. The former is a lovely rose garden while the latter offers the best views in Florence. Having a beer and watching the sun go down at the Piazzale Michelangelo is a must do in Florence! Be sure to get there early to grab a seat.

Night: Relax, have a nice meal in a quiet spot, and don’t go crazy. Tomorrow is a long day so it may not be a good idea to go out to the bars in Florence tonight.

Day 3 in Florence: Let’s make a daytrip!

Florence is not such a big place; by day three, you may have seen most of its biggest attractions. Granted, there is always something to do in Florence but I think it may be a better use of your time to explore the surrounding area.

Tuscany is a gorgeous region and there are lots of cool places to visit here. We’ve already broken down some of our favorite day trips from Florence; in this section, we’re going to stick to just two: Siena and the Val d’Orcia.

Morning: Pick up a rental car in Florence and get ready for a road trip. Whilst some backpackers may hesitate to spend money on a car, having one is really the best way to appreciate the Tuscan countryside.

Early-Afternoon: Make a b-line for Siena, which is located about 90 minutes south of Florence by car. Once you arrive in the city, be sure to visit the Duomo of Siena and the Piazza del Campo – both are close to one another. Have some lunch at a local osteria or eat a packed one before leaving town.

Late-Afternoon: Depart from Siena and continue south for another hour to reach the Val d’Orcia. This is quintessential Tuscan scenery, which means lots of rolling hills, tree-lined country roads, vineyards, and tourists. Just drive around and find your favorite spot. Here are some tips for taking photos in Tuscany .

Evening: After sunset, make your back to Florence. If you have the time, make a detour into the Monti del Chianti region, which is famous for the eponymous chianti wine. Drop by a local winery for some samples and dinner though please remember not to drink too much. Drinking and driving is frowned upon in Italy.

Night: Return to Florence, pack your bags, and reflect upon an amazing trip!

This is only one of many possible routes; read about some more by checking out our Florentine itinerary post!

Learn more about what to expect when visiting Florence by reading the following sections!

Best Time of Year to Visit Florence

Florence has a very ideal climate, even by Itailian standards. Winters are short, summers are long, and spring and autumn are absolutely perfect. Rain comes and goes but is never around for too long. Those planning a trip to Florence will have a very large window to visit the city so don’t feel pressured!

Summer is the most popular time to visit Florence. Lots of people imagine Florence to be in top form during this time; with long days and balmy evenings, the mood in Florence should be heightened. In reality, summers in Florence are horrible. The crowds are massive, prices are high, and the temperature is sometimes unbearable. Florence is actually one of the hottest Italian cities and temperatures regularly go above 100 degree F in July and August. 

The absolute best time to visit Florence is in the spring . During this time, the temperature is mild and the city is bursting with bloomage. The hills of Tuscany are lush as well and during this time they take on their quintessential green color. Prices are also reasonable up until late-May. 

Autumn is also a great time to travel to Florence . September is the month of the harvest, which means there will be lots of wine and food festivals both in and outside the city. Temperatures are still mildly warm as well and stay so until around November.

Florence in the winter can also be fun! This is a great time to bury yourself in the local osterie and to keep yourself warm with a good glass of chianti or some porchetta . The museums will also be less crowded although they’re never really quiet in Florence.

For information on what to bring, be sure to refer to our Italian packing list guide.  

Want to Study Something in Florence?

Studying can be expensive, but with Global Work and Travel , you can pay in instalments and it’ll fit nicely into any itinerary. You can study either coffee making or cooking in Florence for a week or two weeks. Then, take this new skill home with you to impress the neighbours or woo your future spouse.

Getting In and Out of Florence

There are several ways to travel to Florence:

• By plane – Florence has one major airport (Peretola) located about 20 minutes outside of the city center. Regular buses connect the airport with the city. Note that not many people actually use Florence’s airport – most fly into more well-connected ones like Rome and Bologna and then transfer to Florence. As such, airline tickets for Florence may be more expensive than necessary.
• By train – Train travel is, hands-down, the best way to get around Italy. Florence’s primary train station is conveniently located close to the historical center as well so you can start exploring the city in no time. Just be sure to buy your train ticket ahead of time – prices go up quickly as the departure date approaches.
• By car – We’ll go into this in more detail in the next section, but if you’re driving to Florence then you’ll need to leave your car in the outer areas of town. Driving is restricted in the historical center so there’s no point in trying to park there. The best parking in Florence can be found near the outer metro stations, like Scandicci.
• By bus – Traveling to Florence by bus is cheaper than trains and is pretty similar in comfort. Italian buses are modern, comfortable, and convenient. Taking a bus to Florence is ultimately very convenient and highly recommended. Check out prices on Flixbus using the link below.

How to Get Around Florence

Much to its credit, Florence is one of the few European cities to ban motorized traffic in the city center. The no-car zone is called the ZTL Zone in Florence . In these areas ( refer to this Google map for more info) cars will either not be allowed to drive or will be fined heavily for doing so. For those drivers who think they can sneak by: there are cameras everywhere so don’t think you’re  not being watched. Touristy areas also mean more cops that can spot you. 

If you have a car and are wondering then where to park in Florence, you have two options:

• Stay closer to the city center but pay to park.
• On the outskirts of the city near the tram lines where parking is usually free.

The metro station at Scandicci has a large parking lot where you can leave your car overnight. If you’re spending three or so days in Florence, park your car here and then take the tram into the city. Trust me, you won’t need a car in Florence, ever.

Once you’ve actually made it to the center, the best way to see Florence is just by walking. The city center is pretty small and all of Florence’s must-see attractions are fairly close to one another. You could maybe even walk across the entire center if you make a b-line. 

The only kind of vehicles that are allowed in the heart of Florence are taxis and hotel transports. Most of the drivers have an annoying habit of sneaking up and then scaring the shit out of you with the horn. To avoid the ire of the dickish drivers, try not to stand in the middle of roads aimlessly while taking photos and just be aware of any subtle beeping sounds behind you.

Safety in Florence

Florence is not a dangerous city by any means. Violence rarely, if ever, happens here and if it does it’s completely removed from tourists. Not having to worry about traffic makes Florence doubly safe and frankly I can’t think of any situation where your life would be in danger (besides drunkenly jumping from the Ponte Vecchio). 

That being said, the pickpockets in Florence are particularly talented. A good thief will be able to open your backpack, grab your wallet, and get away without you even noticing. All of Italy suffers from this problem unfortunately so don’t feel like you’re putting yourself at any more risk than usual.

Pickpockets prey upon stupid and unsuspecting tourists. The key to beating them is to a) not look a victim and b) have a backup plan just in case. If you look confident and like you have your shit straight, a lot of thieves will leave you alone and look for easier targets. Some might still go for you, in which case having a money belt would be the ultimate deterrent. 

Not all cons come from crooks either – a lot of reputable businesses may also try to rob you and by that I mean overcharge for something as basic as a coffee or bread bowl. Shady taxi drivers, dickish restaurant owners, souvenir hawkers; not all of these people live to make sure you have the best trip in Florence. 

Not everyone in Florence is necessarily out to get you though! The grand majority are lovely! The key to avoiding the bad ones is simply doing a little online research and checking your bill before you pay.

Travel Insurance for Florence

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Tips for Saving Money on Accommodation in Florence

Sometimes you need your own roof above your head – we know the feeling. Other times, you’re doing everything you can save a nickel and dime.

If you’re trying to the cut the costs of travel to Florence, then maybe it’s time to stay somewhere besides a hostel or apartment. If you need to save money, try one of these:

Couchsurf! – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on cash when it comes to accommodation since most of the time you’re crashing for free. Staying with a local host is also a great chance to experience a more authentic side of the city and to visit hidden Florence.

Problem is couchsurfing is really popular (duh, it’s free) and demand often outstrips supply. Hosts are picky as well so you’ll need to impress them with an eye-catching message. Definitely try couchsurfing but be ready to be rejected.

Tap into your backpacker network – You never know when you have a friend in a foreign city! If you’ve traveled a lot, you may have met someone from Florence or know someone who knows someone.

Reach out to people! Ask to stay with people for a night or two in exchange for cooking dinner or a bottle of wine. If you don’t know anyone in the city, ask your friends if they do – travelers understand the struggle and are usually more helpful than you think.

Camping – Urban camping is a growing trend in many cities. These campsites are comfortable, sociable, safe, and cheap. They are often located on the outskirts of town, which means they are quieter too. Research to see if Florence as any and be sure to bring your own tent too !

Some Extra Free Things to Do in Florence

If you intend on visiting Florence on a budget, you will need several tools at your disposal. Taking advantage of the many free activities around the city is one such method that will you help you save lots of cash. Here are some potential free things to do in Florence:

• Go on a free walking tour in Florence: Whilst technically you could do this yourself if armed with the proper guidebook or travel guide for Florence (nudge, nudge), reaching out to a local expert would also be good. The people at Florence Free Tour offer four walks per day in both English and Spanish.Go on a free walking tour in Florence: Whilst technically you could do this yourself if armed with the proper guidebook or travel guide for Florence (nudge, nudge), reaching out to a local expert would also be good. The people at Florence Free Tour offer four walks per day in both English and Spanish.
• First Sundays: Many museums have free entry on the first Sunday of every month between October and March. Check out the list here!
• Visit the original Last Supper(s) : Few people know that Da Vinci wasn’t the first to paint the legendary scene depicting Jesus and his acolytes. There were several Florentine painters who attempted this first. Refer to VisitFlorence’s page to see them all. (Kudos to them for bringing this to my attention.)
• See the chapel of Santa Maria de Firenze: Whilst many of the facilities at Santa Maria de Firenze require paid-entry, the main chapel is still free to enter. From the inside, you will be able to see the marvelous fresco of the dome still.
• Admire the statues at Loggia dei Lanzi: It’s not the Uffizi, but the selection of sculptures at the outdoor gallery of Loggia dei Lanzi is still impressive. The statues are reproductions but damn good ones at that.
• The sweet smells of Santa Maria Novella’s pharmacy: Pop in for a moment to get a whiff of the tonics and tinctures at the church’s private pharmacy. This place has been creating remedies for over 400 years!

Books to Read Before Visiting Florence

If you need a little extra info to supplement our Florence travel guide, try reading one of these books on the city!

• The Prince : The groundbreaking essay about socio-political dynamics as outlined by the original master manipulator, Niccolo Machiavelli. To this day, The Prince is still one of the most relevant pieces of literature concerning politics and how to take advantage of them. Machiavelli was born and died in Florence during the era of the Florentine Republic. 
• The Divine Comedy : One of the most important pieces of literature ever written in the Western World. The Divine Comedy was the first to ever describe in detail in the supposed levels of Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. It’s author, Dante Alighieri, is perhaps the greatest Italian writer in history and lived in Florence most of his life.
• Under the Tuscan Sun: A travel novel that is partly responsible for Tuscany’s massive tourist appeal. Concerns a couple who spend a summer renovating a villa in the countryside.
• The History of the Renaissance World: Florence helped give birth to the period of the Italian Renaissance – a period of history that served as a pivot from the Medieval era to the Modern one. Though there are lots of books about the Renaissance, this one comes highly recommended. 
• The House of Medici : The Medici Family and the city of Florence are practically synonymous – you cannot understand one without knowing the other. This book does a good job explaining the Medici’s role in Renaissance Florence.

As the capital of Tuscany, Florence takes gastronomy very, very seriously. Pork is treated with the utmost respect and wine is as revered like a holy saint. Those looking to go on a food tour in Florence should have no problems finding their way. 

Breakfast in Florence usually starts with a caffe normale (espresso) and a cornetto (croissant). Most Italians eat and drink whilst standing at the bar and you should do the same – some cafes in Florence may charge extra if you sit down at a table and order there.

Lunch is usually heavy on the carbs e.g. pasta, bread, and other things that keep people’s energy up. Following a big meal though, many Italians will take a 1-hour sonnellino (nap/break), especially on a hot day. Be prepared for shops to remain closed until 4 or 5 in the afternoon.

Early evening is the time for the aperitivo . An aperitivo is a light snack usually accompanied by a glass of wine or spritz. Aperitivo prices are usually lower than normal; the best comparison I can make is that they are like the Italian version of happy hour. 

Dinner in Florence is late, usually around 9 in the evening. This is when you start to see many of the staples of Florentine cooking. Bistecca alla fiorentina , which is essentially a giant steak, is widely advertised on most menus in restaurants. Florence is also known for lampredotto or tripe. Though it may sound gross at first, it’s better than you think when served in a sandwich. 

Desert is, of course, the most important part of the meal for Italians and in Florence, it usually comes in the form of pastries or biscuits. Schiacciata fiorentina is a particularly beloved treat in Florence.

Nightlife in Florence

When I last visited Florence in summer, my girlfriend and I used to play a little game: every time we heard a foregin accent, we would pop into a cafe and take a shot. To this day, that is probably still the stupidest game we ever invented – within an hour we were wasted.

Now, that game was not much a testament to how many foreigners there are in Florence (there are a lot) but more to how easy it is to drink in Florence. There are little cafes and bars in every corner of the city; having a drinking is just a matter of popping into one for a moment! The fact that you can take your beer or negroni to-go in Florence is also really awesome.

The biggest nightlife in Florence is generally found in the city center. Much talked-about joints like Moyo, YAB , and The Blob are all found around Santa Croce and the Piazza del Republica. Whilst I personally don’t go for clubs myself, I can recommend visiting local-legend Lion’s Fountain . This is one of the most notorious college bars I’ve ever been to and is, for me, like a blast from my very hazily-remembered college past.

If you want to be with locals, then the best place to drink in Florence is Santo Spirito. During the day, this Florentine neighborhood is a quiet, unassuming area. At night though, the piazza erupts with natives and the mood becomes quite rowdy. Bars emerge from cracks in the walls and table magically appear in the square, although a lot of people choose to sit on the church steps instead. 

If you’ve reached this point and are still wondering whether or not Florence is worth visiting, then I can only say at this point: “GO!” Florence is totally worth the hype. Yes, it is crowded with tourists and, yes, almost every single corner of this city requires a ticket to see. That being said, none of these things should deter you. 

Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy. It is gorgeous, hopelessly romantic, and imbued with an energy that you can’t really find anywhere else. I often remark that the feeling I get from Florence is what I expected from Paris in that this is one of the most culturally unmatched cities in the world. 

It doesn’t matter how many days you plan to spend in Florence – one, two, seven, twenty, whatever – just make sure you visit at least once in your life. You won’t regret it.

Before signing off, I wanted to share some last bits of information regarding responsible travel in Florence and how to possibly stay here for longer periods of time. Take a moment to consider the following… 

Volunteering in Florence

Long term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in  Florence whilst making a real impact on local communities look no further than  Worldpackers . Worldpackers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world .

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

Worldpackers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world. We’ve tried and approved them ourselves – check out our Worldpackers in-depth review here.

If you’re ready to create a life-changing travel experience and give back to the community, join the Worldpacker community now. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Make Money Online While Backpacking in Florence

Traveling in Italy long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the country?

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection.

Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start  teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online,  TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad.

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Being a Responsible Traveler in Florence

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Visiting Florence, Italy will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times. Most trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

But there are some things that will put you in the category of a straight up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie mistake. Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up. Show your fellow travelers respect whilst traveling in Florence and anywhere else for that matter!

Florence is a beautiful place that has touched countless people, so let’s not mistreat it. It clearly inspired the makers of this video, which, not gonna lie, has made me cry (only) a few times.

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Florence Travel Guide

SD › Italy › Florence Travel Guide Updated: April 23, 2022 By Santorini Dave

The city of Florence as seen from Piazzale Michelangelo. From left to right the three largest buildings in the skyline are the Palazzo Vecchio, the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), and Santa Croce Basilica.

Florence is one of my favorite cities in Europe. The birthplace of the Renaissance (and of gelato), it’s absolutely packed with masterpieces upon masterpieces. From the grand museums of the Uffizi, Accademia, and Bargello to the architectural wonders of the Duomo, Santa Croce, and Santa Maria Novella cathedrals, to the lavish palaces on every cobblestoned corner, Florence is a testament to Italian intellect, taste, and ingenuity. Its mild weather, walkable streets, and year-round attractions make it an ideal destination anytime, though the spring and fall months offer the best mix of good weather and smaller crowds. The Florence Travel Guide Skip to our Florence FAQ Florence Basics My Favorite Places to Stay in Florence Best Time to Visit Florence – My Recommendations Florence Hotels Best Hotels in Florence Best Boutique Hotels in Florence Best Hotels in Florence for Families Best Romantic, Honeymoon Hotels in Florence Best Budget Hotels in Florence Best Wheelchair Accessible Hotels in Florence Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Florence Hotels with Private Pools & Jacuzzis in Florence Best Agriturismo in Tuscany Florence Hotel Map Florence Activities and Attractions Best Things to Do in Florence Best Restaurants in Florence Best Bars in Florence Best Gelato in Florence Best Shops & Markets in Florence Florence Day Trips The Best Wine Tours in Florence Day Trip to San Gimignano Day Trip to Siena Florence Trip Planning Airport Transportation in Florence Renting a Car in Florence Rome to Florence by Train Venice to Florence by Train Pisa to Florence by Train Livorno to Florence by Train Greece & Italy Itinerary The Florence Cathedral (Duomo) complex includes the cathedral, Brunelleschi’s dome, Giotto’s bell tower, and the baptistery, all seen here. Frequently Asked Questions about Florence Where is Florence? Florence is located in central Italy, about 200 km southwest of Venice, 250 km southeast of Milan, 230 km northwest of Rome and Vatican City, and about 410 km northwest of Naples. The city of Florence is about 790 km east of Barcelona, Spain; 890 km south of Paris, France; and 1225 km northwest of Athens, Greece. Florence is home to roughly 708,000 people in the city and greater metropolitan area. Though the City of Florence occupies about 40 sq km, most of the city’s best hotels, sights, dining, and nightlife are located within 2 km of the highly walkable historic center. What is Florence famous for? Florence is best known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is brimming with museums, churches, palaces, and gardens of the era, all created by luminaries including Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Donatello, Fra Angelico, Boticelli, Raphael, Vasari, and many more – mostly funded by the Medicis or the Church. The Uffizi Gallery is among the greatest museums in the world, boasting the largest collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, while the Bargello features the greatest collection of Italian Renaissance sculpture, and the Accademia is home to Michelangelo’s most famous work, David . Immense, ornate cathedrals stand on nearly every corner with the Duomo being the most impressive of all: topped with the world’s largest brick dome, filled with frescoes, and offering panoramic views from its bell tower. Aside from art and architecture, this compact, bustling city is also known for exceptional food (gelato was invented here), shopping at traditional artisan workshops; and Chianti wine made in the surrounding hills. Florence’s most famous piece of art, Michelangelo’s David can be found in the Galleria dell’Accademia. There are also two replica Davids in the city, one outside the Palazzo Vecchio and one overlooking the rooftops from the Piazzale Michelangelo. What cities have direct flights to Florence? There are direct flights to Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport (AKA Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola) from many international cities. Flights from most cities in Western Europe (including Paris, London, Madrid, Barcelona, Vienna, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Geneva, and many more) take 2 to 4 hours. Flights from everywhere else in the world require at least one stop, usually at a major city in Europe. Flights from North American cities (including Los Angeles, Mexico City, New York, and Toronto) to Florence take from 9 to 14 hours on average. Flights from South America (such as Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, or São Paolo) take between 14.5 and 17.5 hours. From the Middle East (Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, and Tel Aviv), flights take 6.5 to 12 hours. Flights from most major cities in Asia (including Bangkok, Beijing, New Delhi, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo) take from 11 to 16 hours; many flights from Asia to Florence make 2 stops. What is the best month to go to Florence? While Florence is a year-round destination, the absolute best times to visit the Cradle of the Renaissance is during the months of April, May, and September when the weather sunny and warm but not too hot – ideal for outdoor dining and wandering the cobblestone streets and piazzas. October is also a good bet for warm weather, but there is a slightly higher chance of rain. The winter months (November through March) bring some fog and rain, but snow is very rare – winter’s lack of sun is made up for by better rates on hotel rooms and flights. Avoid visiting in August when temperatures are stifling hot and most locals take their vacations, leaving many shops and restaurants closed or operating on reduced hours. With over 400 museums, Florence is magnificent place to visit year-round and in any weather, but to explore the city’s gardens, piazzas, and outdoor attractions like the Ponte Vecchio here, it’s best to visit when it’s warm, sunny, and dry out. How long should I spend in Florence? The main highlights of Florence can be seen in w very full days if planned just right. Travelers who are interested in exploring the true Florence beyond the major attractions should spend at least three to 5 full days in Florence, not counting travel days. No matter how long you spend, taking a tour can be a great way to experience much of Florence’s history, art, wine, and culinary delights in a short amount of time. Called the “Sistine Chapel of the Early Renaissance,” Cappella Brancacci is a hidden gem filled with stunning frescoes by Masaccio, the first great painter of the Renaissance. Travelers will need a minimum of 2 days to see the major sights of Florence and 3 to 5 days to discover the city’s secrets. Is Florence safe? Florence is a very safe city with a low crime rate. In the heart of the city, most streets are pedestrian-only, the piazzas and streets are well-lit at night, and most are filled with people milling about the restaurants, cafes, and bars until late in the evening. As in most major destinations, travelers need to be aware of pickpockets, especially in the crowded train station and tourist-filled hot spots, like the Ponte Vecchio, Piazza del Duomo, and outside Mercato Centrale. Travelers to Florence will be safe and secure so long as they take normal precautions, stay aware of their surroundings, and keep their money out of easy reach. Florence is a safe and popular destination for solo, female travelers. A nighttime view of the Piazza della Repubblica. Most streets and piazzas in Florence are well-lit and filled with people long after it gets dark. Where is the best area to stay in Florence? Despite Florence’s relatively small size, the city offers several great neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive personality. The best neighborhoods to stay in Florence are the City Center (best for first-timers, near all major attractions), San Frediano and Santo Spirito (authentic feel, artisan workshops, and great nightlife), San Lorenzo and San Marco (local vibe, great for foodies), San Niccolò and Piazzale Michelangelo (most romantic with gardens, villas, and views), Santissima Annunziata (quiet area yet close to attractions), Santa Maria Novella (luxe and romantic near the river, but a little gritty near the train station), Santa Croce and Sant’Ambrosio (authentic, family-friendly, great food), and finally Boboli and San Miniato al Monte (restful, upscale, residential feel with gardens and views).

What are the best day trips from Florence? Florence ‘s central location makes it an ideal home base for exploring nearby cities. There are organized tours and direct trains running all day from Florence to fantastic nearby cities, villages, and vineyards. The best day trips from Florence include the Chianti wine region , San Gimignano (known for its 14 medieval towers), Siena (Florence’s historic rival, beautiful duomo and museums), Fiesole (Etruscan and Roman ruins), Pisa (leaning tower and stunning architecture), Lucca (medieval walled city with towers and cathedrals), and Arezzo (medieval, Renaissance, and ancient Roman sites). Vineyards and olive groves in the Chianti wine region just outside of Florence. What currency is used in Florence? Italy is part of the European Union, and the currency used in Florence is the euro (€). Most restaurants, museums, and attractions in Florence accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases like bus tickets, small souvenirs, a quick lunch or scoop of gelato, and taxi fare. ATMs are easy to find throughout the city. Gustapizza is the best pizza restaurant in Florence. Many gelaterias, cafés, and casual restaurants like this one accept cash only, so be sure to keep a few euro on hand.

About Santorini Dave

Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Europe , Italy , Travel Guides · Last Updated: May 23, 2023

A First Timer’s Travel Guide to Visiting Florence Italy

Florence travel guide: for a first-time visit.

Nothing screams romantic charm and historic culture more than roaming the streets of Florence Italy. Or as the Italians call it Firenze. Florence is one of the most historic cities in Italy. It birthed the Italian Renaissance which inspired artists such as Michaelangelo and many of his masterpieces are still there today. In this blog ” A First-Timers Travel Guide to Florence Italy” I cover when to visit Florence, the best places to see in Florence, the top hotels and restaurants, and so much more!

Florence is the capital of Italy and is best known for its art, culture, fine food, and charm. The city is renowned for its incredible art collections and museums. It is home to the Uffizi Gallery, which houses works by renowned artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. The Galleria dell’Accademia is famous for Michelangelo’s statue of David. The historic center of Florence has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, recognizing its exceptional artistic and architectural heritage.

Things to Know Before Visiting Florence, Italy

• Florence is best explored on foot. The center of the city is so compact that you can easily walk around for a couple of hours and see the majority of it.
• When shopping in Florence, local shops are closed from 1 pm-4 pm for siesta. That is how you’ll know if it’s an actual local shop or tourist spot.
• Pre-book your tickets to the museums. You can spend hours waiting in line for the Piazza del Duomo or Uffizi, it’s easy these days to pre-book your ticket. I typically book my excursions on Viator or Get Your Guide
• There is no Uber in Florence. This took us by surprise when arriving at the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station. We decided to walk to our hotel which was on the Arno. It wasn’t the most pleasant experience being that our luggage was making the most noise on the cobblestone streets. In retrospect, we should have taken a taxi!

When to Visit Florence Italy

Florentine summers are hot and humid and most businesses are closed for the month of August. For the best time to visit consider late September or early October. Tourism is at the end of its peak season and the weather is beautiful and sunny!

Spring (April to June): Spring is a popular time to visit Florence, as the weather is generally mild and pleasant. The city comes alive with blooming flowers, and outdoor activities become more enjoyable. However, this is also a peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Autumn (September to October): Autumn is another great time to visit Florence. The weather is mild, and the city experiences fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The foliage starts to change, creating a beautiful atmosphere. It’s a good time for sightseeing, exploring museums, and enjoying outdoor activities.

While all opinions are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support and will continue to share the best properties, things to do, and items I love!

Best Things to Do in Florence

Visit the piazzale michaelangelo.

The high point of our trip. Literally. When visiting the Piazzale Michaelangelo, is situated on a hill called Monte Pincio, south of the Arno River, and offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline. At the center of Piazzale Michelangelo stands a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s renowned statue of David. While the original sculpture is housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia, this replica serves as a tribute to the artist and his masterpiece. The statue is a popular photo spot for tourists.

It’s completely free to visit and the views at golden hour were spectacular. If you want the place to yourself, make sure to get there early. If you only have time to see one of these places in this Florence Travel Guide, you better pick this one!

Visit the Piazza del Duomo

The Piazza del Duomo is one of if not the most popular duomo in the world. The square’s centerpiece is the Florence Cathedral, officially known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. This magnificent Gothic-style cathedral is renowned for its striking dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Visitors can admire the intricate marble façade and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

In order to climb to the top of the dome you’ll have to walk up 463 steps. But you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful sights in Florence. You can pre-book your time slot. Plan to get here early in the morning for the best views and shorter wait times. Piazza del Duomo is not only a focal point for religious and historical landmarks but also a vibrant gathering place where visitors can appreciate the grandeur of Florence’s architectural masterpieces.

Visit the Uffizi Gallery  

A notable Italian Art Museum is located in the historic center of Florence. The gallery has been open since the 16th Century and the pieces of art were a gift after the Medici family lost its rule. Showcasing pieces from Michaelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo Da Vinci, and so many more artists. Uffizi Gallery’s most prominent piece is ‘The Birth of Venus’ by Sandro Botticelli. Finally, to make the most of your time in Florence, I highly recommend purchasing the “ skip the line tickets ” prior to visiting the Uffizi Gallery.

Florence Travel Guide: Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia

Another beautiful Italian Art museum is located in the center of Florence. It’s most famously known for housing Michaelangelo’s David sculpture. It also has many other Florentine artists’ pieces from 1300-1600.

Walk Along Ponte Vecchio and The Arno

Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence. The Italian translation of “old bridge” is literally Ponte Vecchio. When the bridge was in its prime, it was primarily meat vendors. However, the Medici family hated the smell so much, that they made it a law that only jewelry stores can be opened on the bridge. To this day this holds true and you’ll find countless jewelry shops on Ponte Vecchio. Finally, The Arno is the river that runs adjacent to Florence’s city center. If it’s a nice day, walk along The Arno to see what it’s like to live as a local in Florence.

Visit the Historic Piazza Della Signoria

Florence is filled with Piazzas (which is simply town square) however the most notable one has to be Piazza della Signoria. Here you’ll find a W-shaped square that is historic because it has always been the focal point of the Florentine Republic. The Palazzo Vecchio which is Florence’s Town Hall is located in this square. Finally, another popular square is the Piazza Santo Spirito so add that one to your list too!

Visit the Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens is a historical park that was opened to the public in 1766. Originally it was owned by the Medici family and it represents one of the first examples of an Italian garden.

Day Trip to Tuscany for Wine Tasting

Florence is also famous for its wine, particularly Chianti, which is produced in the surrounding vineyards. One of our favorite days of our Florence trip was taking a day trip to the Tuscan vineyards. We booked a Tuscany Wine tour through Viator. It included lunch, transportation to two wineries, and visiting two medieval towns. Each winery offered a guided tour where we learned a great deal about winemaking. The tour took about 6 hours total and was a definite highlight of this Florence Travel Guide!

Best Hotels in Florence Italy

Plaza Hotel Lucchesi : We personally stayed at the Plaza Lucchesi when visiting Florence and would highly recommend it. The hotel is located directly on the Arno River so it’s not exactly in Florence’s historic center but it’s super close walking distance to all the sights. The views from the rooftop are reason alone to stay here! And like most European hotels, breakfast was included. Book your stay here .

Villa Cora : a 19th-century mansion that is secluded in the hills next to the center of Florence. Not only is it a beautiful property, but it boasts a lot of charm and elegance. They have a garden pool and spacious rooms, and the service is unmatched! It’s a perfect spot if you want to be more secluded. Book your stay here.

Hotel Savoy : A Rocco Forte hotel located on the Piazza Repubblica, this hotel is luxurious and stylish all in one. It’s only steps away from the main fashion houses and super close to the main attractions in Florence. Book your stay here .

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze : who doesn’t love a stay at a four seasons hotel? This 5-star hotel is only steps away from the cultural center of Florence. Enjoy a private garden, a luxurious pool, and a delicious on-site restaurant. Book your stay here .

Best Restaurants in Florence

Buca Niccolini – When visiting Florence you absolutely must have the Bistecca alla Fiorentina aka Florentine steak. It’s the main dish of Florence dining. Buca Niccolini is known for having the best and it’s big enough to split with three people!

Trattoria Zsa Zsa – There is something about sitting in a glass cube that sparks joy in my life. The food at Trattoria Zsa Zsa was not only delicious but decently priced as well. Get the truffle ravioli and you will not be disappointed!

Gusta Pizza – Surprisingly, Italy is not really well-known for its pizza. But this spot has amazing pizza. It’s great for on-the-go slices when exploring the city.

Gelateria Dei Neri – The most delicious gelato I’ve ever had in all of Italy. The portions are amazing and it’s located right in the center of town.

For a full restaurant guide to Florence, check out the Best Restaurants in Florence article from Conde Nast traveler.

Best Bars in Florence

Empire Rooftop Bar ($$) – Located in the Hotel Lucchesi this rooftop bar has views of the Duomo. Great bar eats and drinks!

Atrium Bar ($$$) – Elegant and casual at the same time. Great food and an epic atmosphere.

Golden View Open Bar ($$) –Enjoy a glass of vino while looking over Ponte Vecchio. This came highly recommended by a Florence local.

How To Get Around Florence

Since Uber’s been banned in Florence, there are plenty of other ways to get around this cultural city…

Walk ($) – Florence is pretty small and very walkable. A lot of places are pedestrianized and most of the streets are so narrow that walking can get you around much faster than driving.

Bus ($) – The ATAF electric bus is a great way to cover a lot of ground. They are made to navigate the narrow streets and run frequently during the day/night. One-day fare is only 5 euros.

Bikes ($$) – We rented bikes for the day and covered so much ground. If you’re feeling adventurous you can bike up to the Piazzale Michelangelo. It’s all uphill and you have to be in some sort of shape to do so, but the beauty we witnessed was unbelievable!

Grazie for reading my “First-Timers Florence Travel Guide”. If you’re headed here soon it’s safe to say I’m incredibly envious of you. Have the best time and make sure to check out more of my Italy Guides .

You’ll Also Love

February 7, 2023 at 5:34 am

Thank you for this great post and all very useful tips! I will soon visit Florence for the first time. You have beautiful photos! Do you remember where the shop in the first photo is located?

March 30, 2023 at 10:13 am

This post is amazing! Thank you! We are traveling to Florence in May and looking for a wine tour to book in Tuscany. The link in your post does not work, do you know if it is still offered?

March 31, 2023 at 7:49 am

Hi Arielle! Thanks for your comment I just checked and clicked on it myself and it is still offered through Viator. Try clicking on it again 🙂 perhaps the date you are searching for is sold out?

August 19, 2023 at 11:44 pm

My fiance lives in Florence, Tuscany, Italy, I’m planning on going there possibly in October,cause my birthday is that month, my fiance wants me to stay with him while I am there. I am looking forward to visiting Florence, Tuscany, Italy soon! Thanks A soon to be visitor and possibly a new resident after I marry my fiance. Thanks Linda Milton Stockton, California

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FLORENCE TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: A Traveler's Guide to the Heart of Renaissance Kindle Edition

Step into the enchanting world of Florence, where every street whispers tales of history and every piazza dazzles with artistic brilliance. Imagine standing in the shadows of the majestic Duomo, savoring the finest gelato, and strolling through the timeless Uffizi Gallery. This guide is your key to unlocking the treasures of Italy’s Renaissance capital, crafted to turn your travel dreams into reality.

Why You Need This Book:

• Insider Tips : Unveil Florence’s best-kept secrets and hidden gems known only to locals.
• Comprehensive Coverage : All you need to know about transportation, accommodations, dining, shopping, and entertainment.
• Historical Insights : Deep dive into Florence’s rich history, from ancient Rome to the height of the Renaissance.
• Culinary Delights : Navigate the city’s culinary landscape with expert recommendations for must-try dishes and the best gelaterias.
• Cultural Immersion : Engage with Florence’s vibrant art, music, and nightlife scenes.
• Practical Information : Essential details on currency, language, electricity standards, and internet connectivity.
• Sustainability Focus : Learn how to travel responsibly and support local businesses.

What You’ll Miss Out On:

• Hidden Gems : Without this guide, you risk missing out on Florence’s lesser-known treasures.
• Expert Advice : Navigate the city with confidence and insider knowledge.
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Usage of the Book:

• Planning : Ideal for planning your itinerary before you go.
• On-the-Go : Compact and easy to carry for quick reference.
• In-Depth Exploration : Delve deeper into Florence’s culture and history during your visit.

Quality Assurance:

• Accurate and Up-to-Date : Meticulously researched and regularly updated information.
• User-Friendly : Easy-to-navigate layout with maps and practical tips.

Don’t miss out on the experience of a lifetime. Arm yourself with the ultimate guide to Florence and transform your trip into an extraordinary adventure. Click "Buy Now" and embark on your journey to uncover the timeless beauty of Florence today!

• Print length 149 pages
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D78PNFVW
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 16, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
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Florence Italy Travel Guide 2024

Travel like a pro. explore rome, venice, milan, naples, verona, publisher description.

Introducing the ultimate companion for your Florence adventure – the Florence Travel Guide, your passport to unlocking the secrets of this enchanting city! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this meticulously crafted guide is your gateway to experiencing Florence like never before. Benefits of Our Florence Travel Guide: • Benefit 1: Expert Insight: Packed with insider tips and local knowledge, this guide provides you with the expertise of seasoned travelers who have explored every corner of Florence, ensuring you make the most of your time in the city. • Benefit 2: Comprehensive Coverage: From iconic landmarks like the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery to hidden gems off the beaten path, this guide leaves no stone unturned, offering comprehensive coverage of all the must-see attractions and hidden treasures Florence has to offer. • Benefit 3: Practical Advice: Say goodbye to travel headaches with our practical advice on everything from navigating the city's public transportation system to finding the best local cuisine. With our tips in hand, you'll breeze through Florence like a seasoned local. • Benefit 4: Exclusive Recommendations: Discover Florence's best-kept secrets with our curated list of exclusive recommendations, including hidden trattorias serving up authentic Tuscan fare and off-the-beaten-path attractions that will leave you breathless. • Benefit 5: Time-Saving Tips: With our carefully planned itineraries and time-saving suggestions, you can maximize your time in Florence, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of this magical city's charm. Bonus: Offline Maps Unlocked! Never get lost again! In this bonus section, I'll show you how to download and use offline maps, turning your phone into a reliable navigator without needing internet. Perfect for adventures anywhere. Don't let your Florence adventure be anything less than extraordinary. Get your hands on the Florence Travel Guide 2024 today and unlock the secrets of this timeless city! Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Order your copy of the Florence Travel Guide 2024 now and start planning your unforgettable journey to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Your Florence adventure awaits – don't miss out! Order your copy now! Don't Miss Out – Take Action Now!

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How To Take a Day Trip from Rome to Florence: Ultimate Guide 2024

A re you planning your travels to Rome and wondering if you should also make a day trip to Florence? Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s worth it! Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, and it’s only a short trip from Rome. In this blog post, I’ll share my tips on planning a perfect day trip from Rome to Florence.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Considering Taking a Day Trip from Rome to Florence?

I’ll cover everything from the best ways to get to Florence from Rome to what to see and do in Florence. I’ll also give you some tips on making the most of your day trip and avoiding crowds. 

So whether you’re a first-time visitor to Italy or a seasoned traveler, read on for all the info you need to plan your perfect day trip from Rome to Florence!

How to get from Rome to Florence: The Best Ways 

There are many reasons to visit Rome , but once you have explored for a few days, it’s not a bad idea to head out beyond the Eternal City. Let’s jump into the best ways to get from Rome to Florence for a day trip.

1. High-speed train

Several train companies offer direct services between the two cities, and the journey takes about 1 hour and a half. 

I recommend you buy tickets online to save time and hassle in the morning, as seats can fill up during peak seasons. You can also grab your tickets at the train station if you forget.

Rome to Florence by train

Cost: €15 –  €30 each way for an express train

Duration: 1 hr 30mins one way

Departure: Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina.

Arrival: Santa Maria Novella Station. 

Several train companies offer direct express services between the two cities, including Trenitalia and Italo. You can take a local train to save a few euros but it will extend your trip to 3-4 hours.

The most popular train stations for departures to Florence that are close to most Rome hotels are Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina . And good news, in Florence, you will arrive at Santa Maria Novella Station which is in the heart of the city. Most places are easily accessible by walking.

Essential Train Tips

• Validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines
• Beware of pickpockets
• Even with the EuroRail or InterRail pass, you will need to make a reservation, which will cost you $10. You can easily book this on the ItaliaRail booking site

2. Book a small group guided tour

I find tours a great way to have a break from the stress of travel logistics. You can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. Many tours include free pick-up and drop-off to your accommodation in Rome and take about 12 hours round trip.

You will have the extra benefit of learning about the destination from your knowledgeable tour guide. Prices usually start around $115 USD per person and go up from there.

So if you want to skip the fuss, and see the top sights of Florence and possibly a second destination, taking a guided tour is for you! 

Favorite Guided Tours – Rome to Florence

• Rome to Florence with Pisa via GetYourGuide
• Rome to Florence and Pisa with a Small Group via Viator
• Florence Day Trip from Rome via WithLocals

Travel through the picturesque Tuscan countryside in a comfortable minivan, and enjoy the personalized attention of a small-group tour. This is a great way to see some of Italy’s most iconic landmarks in one day. Plus if you are a solo traveler like I often am, this is a great way to meet others!

On a tour of Florence, you’ll see artistic masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery and walk beneath Brunelleschi’s famous dome.

If you book a tour that adds on Pisa, you’ll marvel at the stately marble treasures of Piazza dei Miracoli, including the iconic Leaning Tower. 

Guided tour essential tips

• Be flexible. Things don’t always go according to plan or according to your preferences so it’s important to be flexible when you’re on a guided tour
• Ask questions . If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask your tour guide.
• Don’t be late! This goes for pick up and whenever you are allocated some free time for exploring. If you are late back to the bus, you may just lose your ride!

3. Scenic Self-Drive 

Self-driving from Rome to Florence is a great way to see the Italian countryside and have the freedom to explore at your own pace. The drive takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes via the A1 highway, and the scenery is stunning. Expect to pay costs for the rental car, gasoline, and parking.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning on self-driving from Rome to Florence. 

First, you’ll need to make sure that you have a valid driver’s license and that your travel insurance covers your rental car.

Second, you’ll need to be familiar with the Italian road rules. 

And third, you’ll need to be prepared for traffic, especially during the peak season.

When it comes to parking in Florence, it is pretty limited. There are a few street parking spots available in the city center, but they are metered and have time limits. Some park-and-ride lots are located outside the city center and are great for avoiding the hassle of paying and having to move your car. 

Another good option is a parking garage in the city center, but they fill up quickly. If you’re planning on parking in a garage, be sure to book your spot in advance.

IMPORTANT: Be aware of the ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato). This is a restricted traffic zone in the city center that is only accessible to residents and authorized vehicles. Those who enter the ZTL without a permit, aka with your rental car, will be fined.

If you’re up for a challenge, self-driving from Rome to Florence is a great way to see the best of Italy. 

Essential Self-Drive Tips

• Start your drive early and avoid leaving during the afternoon rush. Traffic can be heavy, especially during the summer months. 
• Take breaks. The drive from Rome to Florence is long, so it’s important to take breaks. Get out of the car and stretch your legs every few hours.
• Plan your route, There are a few different routes you can take from Rome to Florence. The most direct route is via the A1 highway. However, there are also some scenic routes that you can take if you have more time.
• Make sure you fill up! Fill your car with petrol in Rome as it is more expensive in Florence.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for directions.

How to get from Rome to Florence: The Worst Ways 

Moving onto, in my opinion, the worst ways to get from Rome to Florence for a day trip.

Flying from Rome to Florence for a day trip is possible, but it is NOT recommended. 

The flight time is only about 1 hour from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport, but you will need to factor in the time it takes to get to and from the airports, as well as the security checks. This means that you will only have about 4-5 hours in Florence, which is not enough time to see the city properly.

I will always opt for a train over a plane, and here’s why:

• You can get up and walk around on a train
• A train is much more scenic
• Avoid long lines and security at the airport
• It is often cheaper and faster (flights are typically $120 more or less)

If you are determined to fly from Rome to Florence for a day trip, I recommend you book your flights early. This will help you to get the best prices and the most convenient flight times.

But again I wouldn’t recommend flying for a day trip. 

5. Catch a Taxi

Catching a taxi from Rome to Florence is possible, but it is not the most recommended way to travel between the two cities. 

The taxi fare will be quite pricey (about $400-500 each way), and the journey will take about 2 hours. 

Catching a taxi can be convenient, but it is not the most flexible option. You will be limited to the taxi driver’s schedule.

Essential Taxi Tips

• Book your taxi in advance . This will help you to guarantee a taxi and get a better price.
• Be prepared to pay a high fare . The taxi fare will be very expensive, so be prepared to pay a lot of money.
• Be aware of the traffic . The traffic can be heavy, so be prepared for the journey to take longer than 2 hours.
• Have a backup plan . If you are unable to catch a taxi, you can consider taking the train or the bus.

6. Taking the Bus

If you’re on a tight budget for your European adventure, you can take a bus to Florence. The bus journey takes a little longer (about three to four hours), but it’s cheaper than the train, albeit not as comfortable. Tickets cost as little as 5 euros. 

Buses depart every hour from Rome (Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina) heading to Florence, Villa Costanza Tram T1. If you choose this, you will want to catch a very early bus to make the most of your day. And remember, buses can be unreliable and are dependent on traffic conditions. 

Personally, I would recommend you stick with the train, it is worth the extra few euros for a quicker, more comfortable journey that leaves you ample time to explore Florence. 

Essential tips for taking the bus

• Book your tickets in advance. This will help you to guarantee a seat and get a better price.
• Be aware of the traffic . The traffic can be heavy, so be prepared for the journey to take longer than expected.
• Have a backup plan. If you are unable to get a bus ticket, you can consider taking the train.

What to Do on a Day Trip to Florence from Rome

To help you plan an efficient day trip from Rome to Florence here is my recommended itinerary!

Early Morning Start

Rise and shine it’s time to head to Florence! 

Catch an early morning train from Rome to Florence, aiming to arrive in Florence by mid-morning. Trains depart from Rome’s Termini station usually starting at 5 am or 6 am and arrive at Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station.

Or wait for your tour guide to swing by and pick you up if you choose that route!

1. Visit the Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

Start your day in Florence by heading to the signature Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo. Marvel at its stunning architecture and consider climbing to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

2. Explore Piazza della Signoria

Walk to Piazza della Signoria , a historic square known for its impressive sculptures and beautiful architecture. Take some time to admire the iconic Palazzo Vecchio and the outdoor sculpture gallery.

3. Uffizi Gallery

Next, visit the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s most renowned art museums. Explore its extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. I suggest booking tickets in advance to skip the line .

4. Ponte Vecchio

Take a short stroll to the Ponte Vecchio, a famous bridge spanning the Arno River. Enjoy the picturesque views and explore the jewelry shops that line the bridge. The Arno River is a wonderful place to take gorgeous photos of the city!

Take a break for lunch and enjoy some traditional Tuscan cuisine. Look for local trattorias or restaurants offering dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) or handmade pasta.

5. Accademia Gallery (Optional)

If you have time and are interested in seeing Michelangelo’s David , consider visiting the Accademia Gallery . The museum houses this iconic sculpture along with other works of art.

Note that this visit may require additional time, so factor that into your itinerary!

6. Wander through Florence

Take some time to wander through the streets of Florence’s historic center, soaking in the charming atmosphere and admiring the beautiful architecture. Explore the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems along the way.

7. Gelato and Shopping

Treat yourself to some authentic Italian gelato from one of the gelaterias in Florence. Indulge in the delicious flavors as you continue exploring the city.

If you’re interested in retail therapy, browse the local boutiques for leather goods and other unique souvenirs.

Time to head back to Rome ☹️

That’s a wrap!

If you’re catching the train, head back to the Santa Maria Novella station and catch an evening train back to Rome. Ensure you have enough time to reach the station from your last destination in Florence.

Remember to adjust this itinerary based on your specific interests, time constraints, and the operating hours of the attractions you wish to visit.

While it’s a jam-packed day, it allows you to experience some of Florence’s highlights and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage.

Essential Tips: Rome to Florence Day Trip

Here are some essential tips to make the most of your Rome to Florence day trip.

Plan in Advance

Researching ahead of time is key to making the most of your limited time in Florence. Identify the attractions and landmarks you want to visit, strategically plan your itinerary, and consider pre-booking tickets for popular museums and galleries to skip the queues. 

Get a head start

Start your day trip from Rome to Florence bright and early to maximize your day. If you are catching a train, first trains usually depart around 5:00 or 6:00 a.m., allowing you to arrive in Florence by mid-morning.

If you opt for a guided tour you can expect to start at around 7:00 a.m.

Comfort over style

Florence is a city best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking all day. I suggest you wear your favorite pair of white sneakers or your flat leather boots . Save your Birkenstocks and strappy wedges for another day.

Make a priority list of the must-see attractions in Florence, such as the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria . Focus on ticking off these spots but allow yourself time and flexibility to get lost in exploring hidden gems.

Switch it up and take a guided tour

Consider joining a guided tour or renting an audio guide to learn more about the city’s history and art. By doing so you gain even more insight into the captivating city of Florence. 

Reserve your Tuscan feast

If you have specific restaurants in mind, make lunch reservations in advance to avoid wasting time waiting in line. Florence offers a variety of delicious Tuscan cuisine, so take the opportunity to savor local dishes and rest your feet. 

Manage your time

Watch the time as you get lost in cobblestone streets and wander through museums. Allocate enough time to visit the major attractions and wander through the charming alleyways. Trust me, it’s easy to lose track of time.

Treat yourself to some local products

Florence is renowned for its leather goods, handmade paper, and artisanal products. Leave some time for shopping and pick up unique souvenirs to remember your trip.

Plan your trip home

If you opt for the train, check the train schedule for your return journey to Rome and ensure you have ample time to reach the train station from your last destination in Florence.

I recommend you book a train ticket with a flexible return time in case you want to stay a bit longer.

If you opt for a tour or self-driving this is less relevant to you, just ensure you leave enough time to safely return home. 

Have a blast!

Finally, remember to savor the experience and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Florence. Take in this remarkable city’s art, architecture, and ambiance, making lasting memories before returning to Rome.

And remember to take plenty of photos!

FAQ’s: Day Trip from Rome to Florence

To finish up, let’s cover a couple of additional questions you may have on your day trip from Rome to Florence. 

Is it worth doing a day trip to Florence from Rome?

Absolutely. A day trip to Florence from Rome is well worth doing. Despite the limited time, you can still experience the beauty and cultural richness of the city. 

Feast your eyes on Florence’s Renaissance art showcased in museums like the Uffizi Gallery, marvel at the iconic Florence Cathedral with its breathtaking dome, and explore the historic center that allows you to soak in the city’s charm. 

Plus of course, you have to indulge in Tuscan cuisine to experience the local flavors and traditional delicacies. 

While more time would be ideal to fully explore Florence, a day trip provides a taste of its highlights and leaves you with lasting memories of this captivating city.

Trust me, you’ll be left wanting to explore more!

Is it better to fly or take the train from Rome to Florence?

When traveling from Rome to Florence, taking the train is far superior to flying. 

Not only does it offer a comfortable and enjoyable journey through picturesque Italian landscapes, but it also provides the convenience of city-center to city-center travel. 

With high-speed trains like the Frecciarossa and Italo, the travel time is only around 1.5-2 hours, which is faster than flying once you factor in airport transfers and security procedures.

Plus taking a train eliminates the hassle of airport congestion, risks of delays, and long check-in lines.

You have the freedom to move around, relax, and appreciate the scenic beauty along the way. This is a big plus in my eyes!

If you want a stress-free and pleasant experience, the train is undoubtedly the better choice for your Rome to Florence journey.

No matter how you spend your day, a day trip from Rome to Florence is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

About the author: Olivia is the founder of the travel blog Defining Decade . As a young Aussie traveller, she is the go-to guide for unlocking the world of travel in your twenties.

The post How To Take a Day Trip from Rome to Florence: Ultimate Guide 2024 appeared first on .

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